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WARNER MUSIC GROUP CORP. - 10-K - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
[December 12, 2013]

WARNER MUSIC GROUP CORP. - 10-K - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


(Edgar Glimpses Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) You should read the following discussion of our results of operations and financial condition with the audited financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 (the "Annual Report").

"SAFE HARBOR" STATEMENT UNDER PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995 This Annual Report includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this Annual Report, including, without limitation, statements regarding our future financial position, business strategy, budgets, projected costs, cost savings, industry trends and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe" or "continue" or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology. Such statements include, among others, statements regarding our ability to develop talent and attract future talent, our ability to reduce future capital expenditures, our ability to monetize our music-based content, including through new distribution channels and formats to capitalize on the growth areas of the music industry, our ability to effectively deploy our capital, the development of digital music and the effect of digital distribution channels on our business, including whether we will be able to achieve higher margins from digital sales, the success of strategic actions (including the acquisition of PLG) we are taking to accelerate our transformation as we redefine our role in the music industry, the effectiveness of our ongoing efforts to reduce overhead expenditures and manage our variable and fixed cost structure and our ability to generate expected cost savings from such efforts, including expected cost savings and other synergies from our acquisition of PLG, our success in limiting piracy, our ability to compete in the highly competitive markets in which we operate, the growth of the music industry and the effect of our and the music industry's efforts to combat piracy on the industry, our intention to pay dividends or repurchase our outstanding notes in open market purchases, privately or otherwise, the impact on us of potential strategic transactions, the impact on the competitive landscape of the music industry from the sale of EMI's recorded music and music publishing businesses, our ability to fund our future capital needs and the effect of litigation on us. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct.

There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report. Additionally, important factors could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this Annual Report. As stated elsewhere in this Annual Report, such risks, uncertainties and other important factors include, among others: • the continued decline in the global recorded music industry and the rate of overall decline in the music industry; • downward pressure on our pricing and our profit margins and reductions in shelf space; • our ability to identify, sign and retain artists and songwriters and the existence or absence of superstar releases; • threats to our business associated with home copying and digital downloading; • the significant threat posed to our business and the music industry by organized industrial piracy; • the popular demand for particular recording artists and/or songwriters and albums and the timely completion of albums by major recording artists and/or songwriters; • the diversity and quality of our portfolio of songwriters; 41 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents • the diversity and quality of our album releases; • the impact of legitimate channels for digital distribution of our creative content; • our dependence on a limited number of digital music services, in particular Apple's iTunes Music Store, for the online sale of our music recordings and their ability to significantly influence the pricing structure for online music stores; • our involvement in intellectual property litigation; • our ability to continue to enforce our intellectual property rights in digital environments; • the ability to develop a successful business model applicable to a digital environment and to enter into artist services and expanded-rights deals with recording artists in order to broaden our revenue streams in growing segments of the music business; • the impact of heightened and intensive competition in the recorded music and music publishing businesses and our inability to execute our business strategy; • failure to realize expected synergies and other benefits contemplated by the Acquisition; • disruption from the Acquisition and the integration of Parlophone Label Group making it more difficult to maintain certain strategic relationships and distracting management's focus on the business; • risks relating to recent or future ratings agency actions or downgrades as a result of the Acquisition, or any associated financing; • risks associated with our non-U.S. operations, including limited legal protections of our intellectual property rights and restrictions on the repatriation of capital; • significant fluctuations in our operations and cash flows from period to period; • our inability to compete successfully in the highly competitive markets in which we operate; • further consolidation of our industry and its impact on the competitive landscape of the music industry, specifically the acquisition of EMI's recorded music business by Universal Music Group and the acquisition of EMI's music publishing business by a consortium led by Sony Corporation of America; • trends, developments or other events in some foreign countries in which we operate; • local economic conditions in the countries in which we operate; • our failure to attract and retain our executive officers and other key personnel; • the impact of rate regulations on our Recorded Music and Music Publishing businesses; • the impact of rates on other income streams that may be set by arbitration proceedings on our business; • an impairment in the carrying value of goodwill or other intangible and long-lived assets; • unfavorable currency exchange rate fluctuations; • our failure to have full control and ability to direct the operations we conduct through joint ventures; • legislation limiting the terms by which an individual can be bound under a "personal services" contract; • a potential loss of catalog if it is determined that recording artists have a right to recapture rights in their recordings under the U.S. Copyright Act; • trends that affect the end uses of our musical compositions (which include uses in broadcast radio and television, film and advertising businesses); • the growth of other products that compete for the disposable income of consumers; 42 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents • the impact of, and risks inherent in, acquisitions or business combinations; • risks inherent to our outsourcing of IT infrastructure and certain finance and accounting functions; • the fact that we have engaged in substantial restructuring activities in the past, and may need to implement further restructurings in the future and our restructuring efforts may not be successful or generate expected cost-savings, including expected cost savings and other synergies from our acquisition of PLG; • the impact of our substantial leverage, including the increase associated with additional indebtedness incurred in connection with the Acquisition, on our ability to raise additional capital to fund our operations, on our ability to react to changes in the economy or our industry and on our ability to meet our obligations under our indebtedness; • the ability to generate sufficient cash to service all of our indebtedness, and the risk that we may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness, which may not be successful; • the fact that our debt agreements contain restrictions that limit our flexibility in operating our business; • our indebtedness levels, and the fact that we may be able to incur substantially more indebtedness which may increase the risks created by our substantial indebtedness; • the significant amount of cash required to service our indebtedness and the ability to generate cash or refinance indebtedness as it becomes due depends on many factors, some of which are beyond our control; • risks of downgrade, suspension or withdrawal of the rating assigned by a rating agency to us could impact our cost of capital; • risks relating to Access, which indirectly owns all of our outstanding capital stock, and controls our company and may have conflicts of interest with the holders of our debt or us in the future. Access may also enter into, or cause us to enter into, strategic transactions that could change the nature or structure of our business, capital structure or credit profile; • our reliance on one company as the primary supplier for the manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution of our products in the U.S. and Canada and part of Europe; • risks related to evolving regulations concerning data privacy which might result in increased regulation and different industry standards; • changes in law and government regulations; and • risks related to other factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in this Annual Report.

There may be other factors not presently known to us or which we currently consider to be immaterial that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements we make. You should read carefully the factors described in the "Risk Factors" section of this Annual Report to better understand the risks and uncertainties inherent in our business and underlying any forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf apply only as of the date of this Annual Report and are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements included in this Annual Report. We disclaim any duty to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

43 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents INTRODUCTION Warner Music Group Corp. (the "Company") was formed on November 21, 2003. The Company is the direct parent of WMG Holdings Corp. ("Holdings"), which is the direct parent of WMG Acquisition Corp. ("Acquisition Corp."). Acquisition Corp.

is one of the world's major music-based content companies.

The Company and Holdings are holding companies that conduct substantially all of their business operations through their subsidiaries. The terms "we," "us," "our," "ours," and the "Company" refer collectively to Warner Music Group Corp.

and its consolidated subsidiaries, except where otherwise indicated.

Management's discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition ("MD&A") is provided as a supplement to the audited financial statements and footnotes included elsewhere herein to help provide an understanding of our financial condition, changes in financial condition and results of our operations. MD&A is organized as follows: • Overview. This section provides a general description of our business, as well as a discussion of factors that we believe are important in understanding our results of operations and financial condition and in anticipating future trends.

• Results of operations. This section provides an analysis of our results of operations for the successor fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, the successor fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, the successor period from July 20, 2011 to September 30, 2011, and the predecessor period from October 1, 2010 to July 19, 2011. This analysis is presented on both a consolidated and segment basis.

• Financial condition and liquidity. This section provides an analysis of our cash flows for the successor fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, the successor fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, the successor period from July 20, 2011 to September 30, 2011 and the predecessor period from October 1, 2010 to July 19, 2011, as well as a discussion of our financial condition and liquidity as of September 30, 2013. The discussion of our financial condition and liquidity includes (i) a summary of our debt agreements and (ii) a summary of the key debt compliance measures under our debt agreements.

• Market Risk Management. This section discusses how the Company monitors and manages exposure to potential gains and losses arising from changes in market rates and prices, such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and changes in the market value of financial instruments.

• Critical Accounting Policies. This section identifies those accounting policies that are considered important to the Company's results of operations and financial condition, require significant judgment and involve significant management estimates. The Company's significant accounting policies, including those considered to be critical accounting policies, are summarized in Note 3 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Overall Operating Results In accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP"), we have separated our historical financial results for the period from July 20, 2011 to September 30, 2011 ("Successor") and for the period from October 1, 2010 to July 19, 2011 ("Predecessor"). Successor and Predecessor periods are presented on different bases and are, therefore, not comparable.

However, we have also combined results for the Successor and Predecessor periods for 2011 in the presentations below, and presented them as the results for the "twelve months ended September 30, 2011" because, although such presentation is not in accordance with GAAP, we believe that it enables a meaningful presentation and comparison of results. The operating results for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011 have not been prepared on a pro-forma basis under applicable regulations and may not reflect the actual results we would have achieved absent the Merger and may not be predictive of future results of operations.

44 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Recent Developments Acquisition of the Parlophone Label Group On February 6, 2013, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire Parlophone Label Group ("PLG") from Universal Music Group, a division of Vivendi, for £487 million subject to a closing working capital adjustment, in an all-cash transaction (the "Acquisition") pursuant to a Share Sale and Purchase Agreement (the "PLG Agreement"). On July 1, 2013, we completed the Acquisition.

PLG includes a broad range of some of the world's best-known recordings and classic and contemporary artists spanning a wide array of musical genres. PLG is comprised of the historic Parlophone label and Chrysalis and Ensign labels in the UK, as well as EMI Classics and Virgin Classics, and EMI's recorded music operations in Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain and Sweden. PLG's artists include Air, Alain Souchon, Camille, Coldplay, Daft Punk, Danger Mouse, David Bowie, David Guetta, Deep Purple, Duran Duran, Eliza Doolittle, Gorillaz, Iron Maiden, Jean-Louis Aubert, Jethro Tull, Julien Clerc, Kylie Minogie, M. Pokora, Magic System, Pablo Alboran, Pink Floyd, Radiohead, Roxette, Tina Turner and Tinie Tempah, as well as many developing and up-and-coming artists. PLG's EMI Classics and Virgin Classics brand names were not included with the Acquisition. WMG has rebranded these businesses, respectively, as Warner Classics and Erato following the Acquisition.

Use of OIBDA We evaluate our operating performance based on several factors, including our primary financial measure of operating income (loss) before non-cash depreciation of tangible assets and non-cash amortization of intangible assets (which we refer to as "OIBDA"). We consider OIBDA to be an important indicator of the operational strengths and performance of our businesses, including the ability to provide cash flows to service debt. However, a limitation of the use of OIBDA as a performance measure is that it does not reflect the periodic costs of certain capitalized tangible and intangible assets used in generating revenues in our businesses. Accordingly, OIBDA should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, operating income, net income (loss) attributable to Warner Music Group Corp. and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP. In addition, our definition of OIBDA may differ from similarly titled measures used by other companies. A reconciliation of consolidated historical OIBDA to operating income and net income (loss) attributable to Warner Music Group Corp. is provided in our "Results of Operations." Use of Constant Currency As exchange rates are an important factor in understanding period to period comparisons, we believe the presentation of results on a constant-currency basis in addition to reported results helps improve the ability to understand our operating results and evaluate our performance in comparison to prior periods. Constant-currency information compares results between periods as if exchange rates had remained constant period over period. We use results on a constant-currency basis as one measure to evaluate our performance. We calculate constant currency by calculating prior-year results using current-year foreign currency exchange rates. We generally refer to such amounts calculated on a constant-currency basis as "excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates." These results should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, results reported in accordance with GAAP. Results on a constant-currency basis, as we present them, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies and are not a measure of performance presented in accordance with GAAP.

45 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents OVERVIEW We are one of the world's major music-based content companies. We classify our business interests into two fundamental operations: Recorded Music and Music Publishing. A brief description of each of those operations is presented below.

Recorded Music Operations Our Recorded Music business primarily consists of the discovery and development of artists and the related marketing, distribution and licensing of recorded music produced by such artists. We play an integral role in virtually all aspects of the recorded music value chain from discovering and developing talent to producing albums and promoting artists and their products.

In the U.S., our Recorded Music operations are conducted principally through our major record labels-Warner Bros. Records and the Atlantic Records Group. Our Recorded Music operations also include Rhino, a division that specializes in marketing our music catalog through compilations and reissuances of previously released music and video titles, as well as in the licensing of recordings to and from third parties for various uses, including film and television soundtracks. We also conduct our Recorded Music operations through a collection of additional record labels, including, among others, Asylum, Big Beat, East West, Erato, Fueled by Ramen, Elektra, Nonesuch, Parlophone, Reprise, Roadrunner, Rykodisc, Sire, Warner Classics, Warner Music Nashville and Word.

Outside the U.S., our Recorded Music activities are conducted in more than 50 countries primarily through various subsidiaries, affiliates and non-affiliated licensees. Internationally we engage in the same activities as in the U.S.: discovering and signing artists and distributing, marketing and selling their recorded music. In most cases, we also market and distribute the records of those artists for whom our domestic record labels have international rights. In certain smaller markets, we license to unaffiliated third-party record labels the right to distribute our records. Our international artist services operations also include a network of concert promoters through which we provide resources to coordinate tours for our artists and other artists.

Our Recorded Music distribution operations include WEA Corp., which markets and sells music and video products to retailers and wholesale distributors in the U.S., ADA, which distributes the products of independent labels to retail and wholesale distributors in the U.S.; various distribution centers and ventures operated internationally, an 80% interest in Word, which specializes in the distribution of music products in the Christian retail marketplace, and our worldwide artist and label-services organization, including ADA Worldwide, which provides distribution services outside of the U.S. through a network of affiliated and non-affiliated distributors.

In addition to our Recorded Music products being sold in physical retail outlets, our Recorded Music products are also sold in physical form to online physical retailers such as Amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and bestbuy.com and in digital form to digital download services such as Apple's iTunes and Google Play, and are otherwise exploited by digital subscription services such as Spotify, Rhapsody and Deezer, and digital radio services such as Pandora, iTunes Radio and iHeart Radio.

We have integrated the sale of digital content into all aspects of our Recorded Music and Music Publishing businesses including A&R, marketing, promotion and distribution. Our business development executives work closely with A&R departments to make sure that while a record is being made, digital assets are also created with all distribution channels in mind, including subscription services, social networking sites, online portals and music-centered destinations. We also work side by side with our mobile and online partners to test new concepts. We believe existing and new digital businesses will be a significant source of growth for at least the next several years and will provide new opportunities to successfully monetize our assets and create new revenue streams. The proportion of digital revenues attributed to each distribution channel varies by region and proportions may change as the roll out of new technologies continues. As an owner of musical content, we believe we are well positioned to take advantage of growth in digital distribution and emerging technologies to maximize the value of 46-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents our assets. We are also diversifying our revenues beyond our traditional businesses by entering into expanded-rights deals with recording artists in order to partner with artists in other areas of their careers. Under these agreements, we provide services to and participate in artists' activities outside the traditional recorded music business. We built artist services capabilities and platforms for exploiting this broader set of music-related rights and participating more broadly in the monetization of the artist brands we help create.

We believe that entering into artist services and expanded-rights deals and enhancing our artist services capabilities will permit us to diversify revenue streams and capitalize on revenue opportunities in merchandising, fan clubs, sponsorship, concert promotion and touring. This will provide for improved long-term relationships with artists and allow us to more effectively connect artists and fans.

Recorded Music revenues are derived from four main sources: • Physical: the rightsholder receives revenues with respect to sales of physical products such as CDs, LPs and DVDs; • Digital: the rightsholder receives revenues with respect to digital download services, subscription services, online and mobile streaming, and mobile ringtones or ringback tones; • Artist services and expanded rights: the rightsholder receives revenues with respect to artist services businesses and our participation in expanded rights associated with our artists, including sponsorship, fan club, artist websites, merchandising, touring, concert promotion, ticketing and artist and brand management; and • Licensing: the rightsholder receives royalties or fees for the right to use the composition in combination with visual images such as in films or television programs, television commercials and videogames; the licensor receives royalties if the composition is performed publicly through broadcast of music on television, radio, cable and satellite, live performance at a concert or other venue, and performance of music in staged theatrical productions.

The principal costs associated with our Recorded Music operations are as follows: • Royalty costs and artist and repertoire costs-the costs associated with (i) paying royalties to artists, producers, songwriters, other copyright holders and trade unions, (ii) signing and developing artists, (iii) creating master recordings in the studio and (iv) creating artwork for album covers and liner notes; • Product costs-the costs to manufacture, package and distribute product to wholesale and retail distribution outlets, the costs to distribute products of independent labels to retail and wholesale distribution outlets, as well as those principal costs related to our artist services businesses; • Selling and marketing costs-the costs associated with the promotion and marketing of artists and recorded music products, including costs to produce music videos for promotional purposes and artist tour support; and • General and administrative costs-the costs associated with general overhead and other administrative costs.

Music Publishing Operations Where recorded music is focused on exploiting a particular recording of a composition, music publishing is an intellectual property business focused on the exploitation of the composition itself. In return for promoting, placing, marketing and administering the creative output of a songwriter, or engaging in those activities for other rightsholders, our music publishing business garners a share of the revenues generated from use of the composition.

Our music publishing operations include Warner/Chappell, our global music publishing company headquartered in Los Angeles with operations in over 50 countries through various subsidiaries, affiliates and non-affiliated licensees.

We own or control rights to more than one million musical compositions, including 47 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents numerous pop hits, American standards, folk songs and motion picture and theatrical compositions. Assembled over decades, our award-winning catalog includes over 65,000 songwriters and composers and a diverse range of genres including pop, rock, jazz, classical, country, R&B, hip-hop, rap, reggae, Latin, folk, blues, symphonic, soul, Broadway, techno, alternative, gospel and other Christian music. Warner/Chappell also administers the music and soundtracks of several third-party television and film producers and studios, including Lucasfilm, Ltd., Hallmark Entertainment and Disney Music Publishing. Since 2012, Warner/Chappell has been making an effort to augment its film and TV music business, with the acquisitions of certain songs and recordings from numerous critically acclaimed films and TV shows. These acquisitions will help Warner/Chappell take advantage of the higher margins and strong synchronization and performance income in the TV/film space. Our production music library business includes Non-Stop Music, Groove Addicts Production Music Library, Carlin Recorded Music Library and 615 Music, collectively branded as Warner/Chappell Production Music.

Publishing revenues are derived from five main sources: • Performance: the licensor receives royalties if the composition is performed publicly through broadcast of music on television, radio, cable and satellite, live performance at a concert or other venue (e.g., arena concerts, nightclubs), and performance of music in staged theatrical productions; • Mechanical: the licensor receives royalties with respect to compositions embodied in recordings sold in any physical format or configuration such as CDs, LPs and DVDs; • Synchronization: the licensor receives royalties or fees for the right to use the composition in combination with visual images such as in films or television programs, television commercials and videogames as well as from other uses such as in toys or novelty items and merchandise; • Digital: the licensor receives royalties or fees with respect to digital download services, subscription services and other digital music services; and • Other: the licensor receives royalties for use in printed sheet music.

The principal costs associated with our Music Publishing operations are as follows: • Artist and repertoire costs-the costs associated with (i) signing and developing songwriters and (ii) paying royalties to songwriters, co-publishers and other copyright holders in connection with income generated from the exploitation of their copyrighted works; and • General and administration costs-the costs associated with general overhead and other administrative costs.

Factors Affecting Results of Operations and Financial Condition Market Factors The industry began experiencing negative growth rates since 1999 on a global basis and the worldwide recorded music market has contracted considerably since then, which has adversely affected our operating results. While there are signs of industry stabilization, with IFPI reporting that global recorded music industry revenues grew 0.2% in 2012, the first time the industry grew year-over-year in 13 years, and, according to the RIAA, the estimated retail value of the U.S. recorded music industry declined by only 0.9% in 2012, a marked improvement versus a decade of steep declines prior to 2011, sales continued to fall in other countries and the industry continues to be impacted as a result of ongoing digital piracy and the transition from physical to digital sales in the recorded music business. Accordingly, the recorded music industry performance may continue to negatively impact our operating results. In addition, a declining recorded music industry could continue to have an adverse impact on portions of the music publishing business. This is because the music publishing business generates a portion of its revenues from mechanical royalties from the sale of music in CD and other physical recorded music formats.

48 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents LimeWire Settlement In May 2011, the major record companies reached a global out-of-court settlement of copyright litigation against LimeWire. Under the terms of the settlement, the LimeWire defendants agreed to pay compensation to the record companies that brought the action, including us. In connection with this settlement, we recorded a $12 million benefit to general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operation for the period ended July 19, 2011 (Predecessor). These amounts were recorded net of the estimated amounts payable to our artists in respect of royalties.

Share-Based Compensation In connection with the Merger, the vesting of all outstanding unvested Predecessor options and certain restricted stock awards was accelerated immediately prior to closing. To the extent that such stock options had an exercise price less than $8.25 per share, the holders of such stock options were paid an amount in cash equal to $8.25 less the exercise price of the stock option and any applicable withholding. In addition, all outstanding restricted stock awards either became fully vested or were forfeited immediately prior to the closing; the awards that became fully vested were treated as a share of our common stock for all purposes under the Merger. As a result of the acceleration, Predecessor recorded an additional $14 million in share-based compensation expense for the period from October 1, 2010 to July 19, 2011 (Predecessor) within general and administrative expense.

Prior to the Merger, Predecessor modified certain restricted stock award agreements which resulted in incremental share-based compensation expense of $3 million recorded within general and administrative expense for the period from October 1, 2010 to July 19, 2011 (Predecessor).

Transaction Costs In connection with the Merger, we incurred approximately $10 million and $43 million of transaction costs, primarily representing professional fees, during the period from July 20, 2011 to September 30, 2011 (Successor) and for the period from October 1, 2010 to July 19, 2011 (Predecessor), respectively. These amounts were recorded in the consolidated statements of operation within general and administrative expense.

Additional Targeted Savings As of the completion of the Merger on July 20, 2011, we targeted cost savings over the next nine fiscal quarters following completion of the Merger of $50 million to $65 million based on identified cost-saving initiatives and opportunities, including targeted savings expected to be realized as a result of no longer having publicly traded equity, reduced expenses related to finance, legal and IT and reduced expenses related to certain planned corporate restructuring initiatives. The targeted cost-savings program was complete as of June 30, 2013, one quarter early, achieving savings in the high end of the estimated range.

EMI and PLG Related Costs We incurred certain costs, primarily representing professional fees, related to our participation in a sales process which resulted in the sale of EMI's recorded music and music publishing businesses, including the subsequent review of the transactions by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, the European Commission and other regulatory bodies, and the subsequent sale of Parlophone Label Group by Universal Music Group. Subsequent to the close of the Acquisition, we also incurred other integration and other nonrecurring costs related to the Acquisition. These costs amounted to approximately $38 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and $14 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, and were recorded in the consolidated statements of operation within general and administrative expense.

Restructuring Charges and Expected Cost Savings and Other Synergies from the Acquisition In conjunction with the Acquisition, we undertook a plan to achieve cost savings (the "Restructuring Plan"), primarily through headcount reductions. The Restructuring Plan was approved by our CEO prior to the close of 49-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents the Acquisition. Under the Restructuring Plan, we currently expect to record an aggregate of approximately $85 million in restructuring charges, currently estimated to be made up of employee-related costs of $61 million, real estate costs of $18 million and other costs of $6 million. A significant portion of these charges have resulted and will continue to result in cash expenditures.

Employee-related costs include all cash compensation and other employee benefits paid to terminated employees. Contract termination costs include legal fees, early termination penalties, and other costs incurred to terminate a contract before the end of its term in connection with a restructuring event. Real estate costs include costs that will continue to be incurred without economic benefit to us, such as operating lease payments for office space no longer being used and moving costs incurred during relocation, costs incurred to close a facility and IT costs to rewire a new facility, among others. The $85 million does not include other integration and other nonrecurring costs related to the Acquisition currently estimated to be $77 million, which do not qualify as restructuring costs. Total restructuring costs of $22 million have been incurred in the year ended September 30, 2013 with respect to these actions, which consist entirely of employee-related costs. The remainder of the Restructuring Plan is expected to be completed by the end of fiscal 2015.

When completed, these actions are expected to result in cost synergies of approximately $70 million, primarily within selling, general and administrative expenses. We expect to realize the benefits of such synergies over the next 24 months. Although management currently believes such cost savings and other synergies will be realized following the Acquisition, there can be no assurance that these cost savings or any other synergies will be achieved in full.

Severance Charges During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, we took actions to reorganize certain of our record labels. Such actions resulted in severance charges (unrelated to PLG) of $11 million. Actions to further align our cost structure with industry trends resulted in severance changes of $42 million, $9 million and $29 million during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, the period from July 20, 2011 to September 30, 2011 (Successor) and for the period from October 1, 2010 to July 19, 2011 (Predecessor), respectively.

Expanding Business Models to Offset Declines in Physical Sales Digital Sales A key part of our strategy to offset declines in physical sales is to expand digital sales. New digital models have enabled us to find additional ways to generate revenues from our music content. In the early stages of the transition from physical to digital sales, overall sales decreased as the increases in digital sales were not yet offsetting decreases in physical sales. While there are signs of industry stabilization, the industry continues to be impacted as a result of the transition to digital sales. Part of the reason for this gap is the shift in consumer purchasing patterns made possible from new digital models.

In the digital space, consumers are now presented with the opportunity to not only purchase entire albums, but to "unbundle" albums and purchase only favorite tracks as single-track downloads. While to date, sales of online and mobile downloads have constituted the majority of our digital Recorded Music and Music Publishing revenue, that may change over time as new digital models, such as streaming and subscription services, continue to develop. While it is believed within the recorded music industry that growth in digital sales will re-establish a growth pattern for recorded music sales, the timing of the recovery cannot be established with accuracy, nor can it be determined how those changes will affect individual markets. We believe it is reasonable to expect that digital margins will generally be higher than physical margins as a result of the elimination of certain costs associated with physical products, such as manufacturing, distribution, inventory and return costs. Partially eroding that benefit are certain digital-specific variable costs and infrastructure investments necessary to produce, market and sell music in digital formats, as well as increases in mechanical copyright royalties payable to music publishers which apply in the digital space. As consumer purchasing patterns change over time and new digital models are launched, we may see fluctuations in contribution margin depending on the overall sales mix.

50-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Artist Services and Expanded-Rights Deals We have also been seeking to expand our relationships with recording artists as another means to offset declines in physical revenues in Recorded Music. For example, we have been signing recording artists to expanded-rights deals for the last several years. Under these expanded-rights deals, we participate in the recording artist's revenue streams, other than from recorded music sales, such as live performances, merchandising and sponsorships. We believe that additional revenue from these revenue streams will help to offset declines in physical revenue over time. As we have generally signed newer artists to these deals, increased expanded-rights revenue from these deals is expected to come several years after these deals have been signed as the artists become more successful and are able to generate revenue other than from recorded music sales. Artist services and expanded-rights Recorded Music revenue, which includes revenue from expanded-rights deals as well as revenue from our artist services business, represented approximately 9% of our total revenue during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013. Artist services and expanded-rights revenue will fluctuate from period to period depending upon touring schedules, among other things. We also believe that the strategy of entering into expanded-rights deals and continuing to develop our artist services business will contribute to Recorded Music growth over time. Margins for the various artist services and expanded-rights Recorded Music revenue streams can vary significantly. The overall impact on margins will, therefore, depend on the composition of the various revenue streams in any particular period. For instance, revenue from passive touring under our expanded-rights deals typically flows straight through to net income with little cost. Revenue from our management business and revenue from sponsorship and touring under expanded-rights deals are all high margin, while merchandise revenue under expanded-rights deals and concert promotion revenue from our concert promotion businesses tend to be lower margin than our traditional revenue streams from Recorded Music and Music Publishing.

The Merger Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, on the Merger Closing Date, Merger Sub merged with and into the Company with the Company surviving as a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent.

On the Merger Closing Date, in connection with the Merger, each outstanding share of common stock of the Company (other than any shares owned by the Company or its wholly owned subsidiaries, or by Parent and its affiliates, or by any stockholders who were entitled to and who properly exercised appraisal rights under Delaware law, and shares of unvested restricted stock granted under the Company's equity plan) was cancelled and converted automatically into the right to receive the Merger Consideration.

Cash equity contributions totaling $1.1 billion from Parent, together with (i) the proceeds from the sale of (a) $150 million aggregate principal amount of 9.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2016 (the "Second Tranche of Old Secured Notes") initially issued by WM Finance Corp., (the "Initial OpCo Issuer"), (b) $765 million aggregate principal amount of 11.50% Senior Notes due 2018 initially issued by the Initial OpCo Issuer, (the "Unsecured WMG Notes") and (c) $150 million aggregate principal amount of 13.75% Senior Notes due 2019 (the "Holdings Notes") initially issued by WM Holdings Finance Corp. (the "Initial Holdings Issuer") and (ii) cash on hand at the Company, were used, among other things, to finance the aggregate Merger Consideration, to make payments in satisfaction of other equity-based interests in the Company under the Merger Agreement, to repay certain of the Company's existing indebtedness and to pay related transaction fees and expenses.

On the Merger Closing Date (i) Acquisition Corp. became the obligor under the Second Tranche of Old Secured Notes and the Unsecured WMG Notes as a result of the merger of Initial OpCo Issuer with and into Acquisition Corp. (the "OpCo Merger") and (ii) Holdings became the obligor under the Holdings Notes as a result of the merger of Initial Holdings Issuer with and into Holdings (the "Holdings Merger"). On the Merger Closing Date, the Company also entered into, but did not draw under, the Old Revolving Credit Facility. In addition, approximately $30 million of shares of common stock of the Company owed by Parent and its affiliates were forfeited immediately prior to the Merger.

51-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents In connection with the Merger, the Company also refinanced certain of its existing consolidated indebtedness, including (i) the repurchase and redemption by Holdings of its approximately $258 million in fully accreted principal amount outstanding 9.50% Senior Discount Notes due 2014 (the "Old Holdings Notes"), and the satisfaction and discharge of the related indenture and (ii) the repurchase and redemption by Acquisition Corp. of its $465 million in aggregate principal amount outstanding 7 3/8% Dollar-denominated Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100 million in aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 8 1/8% Sterling-denominated Senior Unsecured Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the "Old Acquisition Corp. Notes" and together with the Old Holdings Notes, the "Old Unsecured Notes"), and the satisfaction and discharge of the related indentures, and payment of related tender offer or call premiums and accrued interest on the Old Unsecured Notes.

Management Agreement Upon completion of the Merger, the Company and Holdings entered into a management agreement with Access, dated as of the Merger Closing Date (the "Management Agreement"), pursuant to which Access will provide the Company and its subsidiaries with financial, investment banking, management, advisory and other services. Pursuant to the Management Agreement, the Company, or one or more of its subsidiaries, will pay Access a specified annual fee initially equal to the greater of (i) the sum of (x) a base amount of approximately $9 million and (y) 1.5% of the aggregate amount of Acquired EBITDA (as defined in the Management Agreement) as at such time or (ii) 1.5% of the EBITDA (as defined in the indenture governing the WMG Holdings Corp. 13.75% Senior Notes due 2019 as required by the Management Agreement) of the Company for the applicable fiscal year, plus expenses, and a specified transaction fee for certain types of transactions completed by Holdings or one or more of its subsidiaries, plus expenses. The amount of "Acquired EBITDA" at any time shall be equal to sum of the amounts of positive EBITDA of businesses, companies or operations acquired directly or indirectly by the Company from and after the completion of the Merger, each such amount of positive EBITDA as calculated (by Access in its sole discretion) for the four fiscal quarters most recently ended for which internal financial statements are available at the date of the pertinent acquisition. In fiscal 2013, the base amount for the annual fee due under the Management Agreement was increased from $6 million to approximately $9 million to reflect the aggregate amount of Acquired EBITDA, primarily associated with the acquisition of PLG. The Company also paid Access a transaction fee related to the Acquisition in fiscal 2013. The Annual Fee shall be calculated and payable as follows: (i) one-quarter of the Base Amount in effect on the first day of each fiscal quarter shall be paid on such date, in advance for the fiscal quarter then commencing and (ii) following the completion of every full fiscal year after the date hereof, once internal financial statements for such fiscal year are available, the Company and Access shall jointly calculate the EBITDA of the Company for such fiscal year and the Company shall pay to Access the amount, if any, by which 1.5% of such EBITDA exceeds the sum of the amounts paid in respect of such fiscal year pursuant to clause (i) above. The Company and Holdings agreed to indemnify Access and certain of its affiliates against all liabilities arising out of performance of the Management Agreement.

The Company recorded expense of $19 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 (Successor), $8 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 (Successor) and $1 million for the period from July 20, 2011 to September 30, 2011 (Successor) related to the Management Agreement with Access, and such amounts have been included as a component of selling, general and administrative expense in the accompanying statement of operations.

Such costs incurred by the Company were approximately $8 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, which includes the annual fee and reimbursement of certain expenses in connection with the Management Agreement, but excludes $2 million of expenses reimbursed related to certain consultants with full time roles at the Company for both the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, we also incurred an $11 million transaction fee related to the Acquisition.

52 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2013 Compared with Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2012 and Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2011 The following table sets forth our results of operations as reported in our condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). GAAP requires that we separately present our Predecessor and Successor periods' results. Management believes reviewing our operating results for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011 by combining the results of the Predecessor and Successor periods is more useful in identifying any trends in, or reaching conclusions regarding, our overall operating performance. Accordingly, the table below presents the non-GAAP combined results for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, which is also the period we compare when computing percentage change from prior period, as we believe this presentation provides the most meaningful basis for comparison of our results and it is how management reviews operating performance. The combined operating results may not reflect the actual results we would have achieved had the Merger closed prior to July 20, 2011 and may not be predictive of future results of operations.

Consolidated Historical Results Revenues Our revenues were composed of the following amounts (in millions): For the Successor Predecessor Combined For the Fiscal For the Fiscal From July 20, From Twelve Year Ended Year Ended 2011 through October 1, Months ended 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 September 30, September 30, September 30, 2010 through September 30, 2013 2012 2011 July 19, 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % Change Revenue by Type Physical $ 900 $ 970 $ 194 $ 841 $ 1,035 $ (70 ) -7 % $ (65 ) -6 % Digital 997 865 147 622 769 132 15 % 96 12 % Total Physical and Digital 1,897 1,835 341 1,463 1,804 62 3 % 31 2 % Artist services and expanded-rights 270 244 75 235 310 26 11 % (66 ) -21 % Licensing 222 202 41 192 233 20 10 % (31 ) -13 % Total Recorded Music 2,389 2,281 457 1,890 2,347 108 5 % (66 ) -3 % Performance 197 200 41 172 213 (3 ) -2 % (13 ) -6 % Mechanical 113 128 23 118 141 (15 ) -12 % (13 ) -9 % Synchronization 98 111 21 91 112 (13 ) -12 % (1 ) -1 % Digital 83 66 15 44 59 17 26 % 7 12 % Other 12 13 3 11 14 (1 ) -8 % (1 ) -7 % Total Music Publishing 503 518 103 436 539 (15 ) -3 % (21 ) -4 % Intersegment eliminations (21 ) (19 ) (4 ) (15 ) (19 ) (2 ) -11 % - - Total Revenue $ 2,871 $ 2,780 $ 556 $ 2,311 $ 2,867 $ 91 3 % $ (87 ) -3 % Revenue by Geographical Location U.S. Recorded Music 973 915 176 785 $ 961 $ 58 6 % $ (46 ) -5 % U.S. Music Publishing 188 198 40 151 191 (10 ) -5 % 7 4 % Total U.S. 1,161 1,113 216 936 1,152 48 4 % (39 ) -3 % International Recorded Music 1,416 1,366 281 1,105 1,386 50 4 % (20 ) -1 % International Music Publishing 315 320 63 285 348 (5 ) -2 % (28 ) -8 % Total International 1,731 1,686 344 1,390 1,734 45 3 % (48 ) -3 % Intersegment eliminations (21 ) (19 ) (4 ) (15 ) (19 ) (2 ) -11 % - - Total Revenue $ 2,871 $ 2,780 $ 556 $ 2,311 $ 2,867 $ 91 3 % $ (87 ) -3 % 53 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Total Revenue 2013 vs. 2012 Total revenues increased by $91 million, or 3%, to $2.871 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $2.780 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Prior to intersegment eliminations, Recorded Music and Music Publishing revenues represented 83% and 17% of revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and 81% and 19% of total revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, U.S.

and international revenues represented 40% and 60% of total revenues for both the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total revenues increased by $136 million, or 5%.

Our overall results include the impact of PLG revenues from July 1, 2013 through September 30, 2013, including PLG revenues of $59 million. The additional revenue represents carryover from prior-period releases, as there were no new releases for PLG during the quarter ended September 30, 2013. Excluding the impact of PLG, total revenues increased by $32 million, or 1%.

Total digital revenues after intersegment eliminations increased by $151 million, or 16%, to $1.076 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $925 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Total digital revenues represented 38% and 33% of consolidated revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 were comprised of U.S. revenues of $574 million and international revenues of $506 million, or 53% and 47% of total digital revenues, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 were comprised of U.S.

revenues of $526 million and international revenues of $405 million, or 56% and 44% of total digital revenues, respectively.

Recorded Music revenues increased by $108 million, or 5%, to $2.389 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $2.281 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $973 million and $915 million, or 41% and 40% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.

International Recorded Music revenues were $1.416 billion and $1.366 billion, or 59% and 60% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.

The overall increase in Recorded Music revenue reflected growth in digital revenues, which more than offset the continued decline in physical sales, as well as increases in artist services and expanded-rights revenue and licensing revenue. The decrease in physical sales was driven by the ongoing transition from physical to digital sales as well as the comparatively strong prior-period performance of Michael Bublé's "Christmas" album and key local releases in Japan, which were more heavily weighted towards physical sales. The current period included the success of Led Zeppelin's "Celebration Day" which was more heavily weighted towards physical sales. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, physical revenues declined $90 million. Digital revenues continued to grow, up $132 million, or 15%, in the current period, and more than offset the declines in physical revenue for a second consecutive year. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, digital revenues increased $106 million. The increase was driven by strong growth in downloads, which increased $50 million, and in streaming and subscription services, which increased $75 million, offset by the decline in mobile revenue of $19 million, which reflected the continued decrease in demand for ringtones and ringback tones. The increases were attributable to current-period releases such as Bruno Mars' "Unorthodox Jukebox" and current-period releases under third-party distribution deals, as well as continued success from prior-period releases with strong digital carryover sales from Flo Rida and fun. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased $21 million due to timing of tours in Europe and Asia and higher merchandising revenue in the U.S. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, licensing revenues increased $12 million primarily due to timing. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total Recorded Music revenues increased by $150 million, or 7%.

54-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Music Publishing revenues decreased by $15 million, or 3%, to $503 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $518 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $188 million and $198 million, or 37% and 38%, of Music Publishing revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $315 million and $320 million, or 63% and 62%, of Music Publishing revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.

The overall decrease in Music Publishing revenue was driven primarily by the continued decline in mechanical revenue and a decline in synchronization revenue, partially offset by the increase in digital revenue. The decrease in mechanical revenue reflected the impact of the ongoing transition from physical to digital sales in the music industry as well as the decision to exit certain lower-margin deals in the prior period. The decrease in synchronization revenue reflected lower overall demand in the commercial and videogame market. The increase in digital revenue reflected continued growth in digital downloads of $6 million and streaming and subscription services of $10 million. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total Music Publishing revenues decreased by $12 million, or 2%.

2012 vs. 2011 Total revenues decreased by $87 million, or 3%, to $2.780 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $2.867 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Prior to intersegment eliminations, Recorded Music and Music Publishing revenues comprised 81% and 19% of total revenues, respectively, for both the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. U.S. and international revenues comprised 40% and 60% of total revenues, respectively, for both the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total revenues decreased by $23 million, or 1%.

Total digital revenues, after intersegment eliminations, increased by $105 million, or 13%, to $925 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $820 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Total digital revenue represented 33% and 29% of consolidated revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 were comprised of U.S. revenues of $526 million, or 56% of total digital revenues, and international revenues of $405 million, or 44% of total digital revenues. Prior to intersegment eliminations, total digital revenues for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011 were comprised of U.S. revenues of $471 million, or 57% of total digital revenues, and international revenues of $357 million, or 43% of total digital revenues.

Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total digital revenues increased by $114 million, or 14%.

Recorded Music revenues decreased by $66 million, or 3%, to $2.281 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $2.347 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $915 million and $961 million, or 40% and 41% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. International Recorded Music revenues were $1.366 billion and $1.386 billion, or 60% and 59% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total Recorded Music revenues decreased by $20 million, or 1%.

This performance reflected the ongoing impact of the transition from physical to digital sales offset by the current-year success of Michael Bublé's "Christmas" album and key local releases in Japan. In addition, growth in digital revenues more than offset physical revenue declines in our Recorded Music business.

Artist services and expanded-rights revenues decreased primarily due to a decline in concert promotion revenue resulting from a strong touring schedule in France in the prior period which was not duplicated in the current year.

Licensing revenues decreased due primarily to timing. The increase in digital revenues was driven by an increase in 55-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents revenue from streaming and subscription services of $58 million, growth in digital download revenue of $70 million mainly in the U.S., Latin America and certain European territories, partially offset by a $32 million decline in global ringtone revenue.

Music Publishing revenues decreased by $21 million, or 4%, to $518 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $539 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $198 million and $191 million, or 38% and 35% of Music Publishing revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $320 million and $348 million, or 62% and 65% of Music Publishing revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total Music Publishing revenues decreased by $3 million, or 1%.

The decrease in Music Publishing revenue was driven primarily by decreases in mechanical revenue and performance revenue, partially offset by an increase in digital revenue. The decrease in mechanical revenue reflected the ongoing impact of the transition from physical to digital sales in the recorded music industry and the decision to exit certain lower-margin administration deals. The decrease in performance revenue was driven primarily by a reduction in U.S. radio license fees and a market decline in the U.K., partially offset by a stronger advertising market, strong chart positions and recent acquisitions. The increase in digital revenue was driven by the growth of global digital downloads of $7 million and the continued success of streaming services of $4 million offset by declines of $4 million in global ringtone revenue.

Revenue by Geographical Location 2013 vs. 2012 U.S. revenues increased by $48 million, or 4%, to $1.161 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $1.113 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The increase in U.S. revenues reflected the growth in Recorded Music digital revenues, licensing revenues and artist services revenue slightly offset by a decline in Recorded Music physical revenues and Music Publishing revenues. U.S. Recorded Music physical revenue declined $6 million as a result of the continued transition to digital platforms, but was offset by current period releases with strong physical demand such as Michael Bublé's "To Be Loved" and Blake Shelton's "Based on a True Story…". U.S. Recorded Music digital revenues increased $39 million as a result of the continued growth in digital download revenue of $20 million and in streaming and subscription service revenue of $32 million, due to the increased availability and demand of digital formats including the introduction of new cloud and locker services, partially offset by a decline in mobile revenue of $13 million. U.S. licensing revenues increased $11 million due to timing. U.S. artist services and expanded-rights revenues increased $14 million as a result of increased merchandise sales on managed tours of $7 million. U.S. Music Publishing revenues decreased $10 million primarily due to declines in mechanical revenue of $6 million as a result of the ongoing impact of the transition from physical to digital sales in the music industry and synchronization revenue of $11 million as a result of lower overall demand in the commercial and videogame markets.

Partially offsetting these declines was the growth in U.S. Music Publishing digital revenue of $9 million as a result of the continued growth in digital download revenue of $5 million and in streaming and subscription service revenue of $4 million.

International revenues increased by $45 million, or 3%, to $1.731 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $1.686 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, International Recorded Music revenues decreased $9 million. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, International Recorded Music physical sales decreased $84 million primarily due to comparatively strong performance of key local releases in Japan in the prior year. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, International Recorded Music digital revenues increased $67 million as a result of growth in digital download revenue of $30 million and in streaming and subscription service revenue of $43 million, and was mainly attributable to continued success from current-period releases including Bruno Mars' "Unorthodox Jukebox" and current-period releases under third party distribution deals with strong digital demand, partially offset by a decline in mobile revenue of 56-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents $6 million. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased $7 million, primarily due to the timing of tours in Japan which increased $6 million and increased merchandise sales on managed tours in the U.K. of $2 million. International Music Publishing revenues decreased $5 million primarily due to declines in mechanical revenue of $9 million as a result of the ongoing impact of the transition from physical to digital sales in the music industry and performance revenue of $3 million.

Partially offsetting these declines was the growth in International Music Publishing digital revenue of $8 million as a result of the continued growth in streaming and subscription service revenue of $6 million and digital download revenue of $1 million. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total international revenues increased $90 million, or 6%.

2012 vs. 2011 U.S. revenues decreased by $39 million, or 3%, to $1.113 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $1.152 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The overall decline in the U.S. Recorded Music business primarily reflected the ongoing transition from physical sales to digital sales, with a decline of $56 million in physical revenue and lower artist services and expanded-rights revenues of $18 million driven primarily by lower merchandise revenue of $7 million and ticketing revenue of $12 million. The decrease was partially offset by the strong performance of Michael Bublé's "Christmas" album and an increase in digital revenue of $56 million driven by growth in digital downloads of $34 million and the continued success of streaming services of $34 million, partially offset by the continued decline in mobile revenue of $12 million. The overall increase in the U.S. Music Publishing business was primarily the result of the timing of collections, partially offset by mechanical declines exceeding digital revenue growth and a reduction in U.S.

radio license fees.

International revenues decreased by $48 million, or 3%, to $1.686 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $1.734 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange, international revenues increased $16 million, or 1%, for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. This performance reflected the current-year success of Michael Bublé's "Christmas" album and key local releases in Japan. An increase in digital revenue of $48 million, primarily as a result of growth in digital downloads of $42 million and the continued success of streaming services of $27 million, was partially offset by the contracting demand for physical product, with a decline of $10 million in physical revenue and lower artist services and expanded-rights revenues of $48 million driven primarily by declines in concert promotion revenue of $53 million as compared to results from the strong touring schedule in France in the prior period. Revenue growth in Japan of $55 million, Germany of $7 million and Italy of $8 million was partially offset by weakness in France and the U.K., which declined by $92 million and $29 million, respectively.

See "Business Segment Results" presented hereinafter for a discussion of revenue by type for each business segment.

Cost of revenues Our cost of revenues was composed of the following amounts (in millions): Successor Predecessor For the From Combined For the Fiscal For the Fiscal From July 20, October 1, Twelve 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 Year Ended Year Ended 2011 through 2010 through Months ended September 30, September 30, September 30, July 19, September 30, 2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % Change Artist and repertoire costs $ 956 $ 969 $ 168 $ 834 $ 1,002 $ (13 ) -1 % $ (33 ) -3 % Product costs 543 490 120 427 547 53 11 % (57 ) -10 % Total cost of revenues $ 1,499 $ 1,459 $ 288 $ 1,261 $ 1,549 $ 40 3 % $ (90 ) -6 % 57 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents 2013 vs. 2012 Our cost of revenues increased by $40 million, or 3%, to $1.499 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $1.459 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, cost of revenues remained flat at 52% for both the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.

Artist and repertoire costs decreased by $13 million, or 1%, to $956 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $969 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The decrease in artist and repertoire costs was driven by a shift towards higher margin Music Publishing deals, which more than offset an increase in revenue in the current period and the cost-recovery benefit of $8 million in the prior period. Artist and repertoire costs as a percentage of revenues decreased to 33% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 35% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, due to a shift towards higher margin deals in Music Publishing.

Product costs increased by $53 million, or 11%, to $543 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $490 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, primarily as a result of the increase in revenue. Product costs as a percentage of revenues increased to 19% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 18% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 due to the revenue mix driven by increases in Recorded Music artist services and expanded-rights revenue offset by the continued shift from physical to digital.

Costs associated with our artist services and expanded-rights business are primarily recorded as a component of product costs. Revenue growth in artist services and expanded-rights was due to concert promotion and merchandise on managed tours, which tend to yield lower margins than our physical and digital revenue.

2012 vs. 2011 Cost of revenues decreased by $90 million, or 6%, to $1.459 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $1.549 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Expressed as a percent of revenues, cost of revenues was 52% and 54% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

Artist and repertoire costs decreased by $33 million, or 3%, to $969 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $1.002 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in artist and repertoire costs was driven by the decrease in revenue, the timing of our artist and repertoire spend and a cost-recovery benefit related to the early termination of an artist contract of $8 million. Artist and repertoire costs as a percentage of revenues remained flat at 35% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

Product costs decreased by $57 million, or 10%, to $490 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $547 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in product costs was primarily a result of a decrease in physical revenue in the current period and a decrease in artist services and expanded-rights revenue mainly due to the timing of our European concert promotion businesses. Costs associated with our artist services and expanded-rights business are primarily recorded as a component of product costs.

Concert promotion tends to yield lower margins than our physical and digital revenue. Product costs as a percentage of revenues decreased to 18% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from 19% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

58 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Selling, general and administrative expenses Our selling, general and administrative expenses are composed of the following amounts (in millions): Successor Predecessor For the Combined Twelve For the Fiscal For the Fiscal From July 20, From Months 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 Year Ended Year Ended 2011 through October 1, 2010 ended September 30, September 30, September 30, through July 19, September 30, 2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % ChangeGeneral and administrative expense (1) $ 609 $ 574 $ 106 $ 493 $ 599 $ 35 6 % $ (25 ) -4 % Selling and marketing expense 422 390 78 335 413 32 8 % (23 ) -6 % Distribution expense 59 55 12 46 58 4 7 % (3 ) -5 % Total selling, general and administrative expense $ 1,090 $ 1,019 $ 196 $ 874 $ 1,070 $ 71 7 % $ (51 ) -5 % (1) Includes depreciation expense of $51 million, $51 million and $42 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

2013 vs. 2012 Total selling, general and administrative expense increased by $71 million, or 7%, to $1.090 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $1.019 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 38% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 37% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.

General and administrative expenses increased by $35 million, or 6%, to $609 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $574 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The increase in general and administrative expense was due to $19 million of share-based compensation expense, $11 million of a transaction fee under the Management Agreement related to the Acquisition, $22 million of restructuring expense, and a $24 million increase in professional fees and integration costs associated with the Acquisition compared to the prior-period. This was partially offset by lower variable compensation and $31 million lower severance expense unrelated to the Acquisition. The current period results do not yet reflect the expected synergies from the Acquisition, which may not be realized in full. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, general and administrative expenses remained flat at 21% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.

Selling and marketing expense increased by $32 million, or 8%, to $422 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $390 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, primarily related to higher variable marketing expense related to current-period releases. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, selling and marketing expense increased to 15% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 14% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, primarily as a result of the strong sales performance of Michael Bublé's "Christmas" in the prior-period, which had a lower proportionate marketing spend than current period releases.

Distribution expense increased by $4 million, or 7%, to $59 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $55 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 due to increased revenue. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, distribution expense remained flat at 2% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.

59-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents 2012 vs. 2011 Selling, general and administrative expense decreased by $51 million to $1.019 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $1.070 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Expressed as a percent of revenues, selling, general and administrative expense remained flat at 37% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

General and administrative expense decreased by $25 million, or 4%, to $574 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $599 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in general and administrative expense was driven by merger transaction costs including advisory, accounting, legal and other professional fees of $53 million in the prior period incurred in connection with the consummation of the Merger, the realization of cost savings from previously announced management initiatives and the prior period year charges for share-based compensation expense of $24 million partially offset by an increase in depreciation expense resulting from recently completed capital projects and the revaluation of depreciable assets recorded in connection with the Merger, professional fees associated with our Management Agreement, costs related to the sale of EMI, an increase in variable compensation expense and the prior period year benefit for the LimeWire settlement. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, general and administrative expenses remained flat at 21% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

Selling and marketing expense decreased by $23 million, or 6%, to $390 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $413 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in selling and marketing expense was primarily related to lower variable marketing expense as a result of our effort to better align spending on selling and marketing expense with revenues earned. Selling and marketing expense as a percentage of revenues remained flat at 14% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

Distribution expense decreased by $3 million, or 5%, to $55 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $58 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Distribution expense remained flat as a percentage of revenues at 2% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

60-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Reconciliation of Consolidated Historical OIBDA to Operating Income and Net Loss Attributable to Warner Music Group Corp.

As previously described, we use OIBDA as our primary measure of financial performance. The following table reconciles OIBDA to operating income, and further provides the components from operating income to net loss attributable to Warner Music Group Corp. for purposes of the discussion that follows (in millions): Successor Predecessor For the From Combined From October 1, Twelve For the Year For the Year July 20, 2011 2010 Months Ended Ended through through ended September 30, September 30, September 30, July 19, September 30, 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % Change OIBDA $ 333 $ 353 $ 81 $ 209 $ 290 $ (20 ) -6 % $ 63 22 % Depreciation expense (51 ) (51 ) (9 ) (33 ) (42 ) - - % (9 ) -21 % Amortization expense (207 ) (193 ) (38 ) (178 ) (216 ) (14 ) -7 % 23 11 % Operating income (loss) 75 109 34 (2 ) 32 (34 ) -31 % 77 - % Loss on extinguishment of debt (85 ) - - - - (85 ) - % - - % Interest expense, net (203 ) (225 ) (62 ) (151 ) (213 ) 22 10 % (12 ) -6 % Other (expense) income, net (12 ) 8 - 5 5 (20 ) - % 3 60 % (Loss) income before income taxes (225 ) (108 ) (28 ) (148 ) (176 ) (117 ) -108 % 68 39 % Income tax benefit (expense) 31 (1 ) (3 ) (27 ) (30 ) 32 - % 29 97 % Net loss (194 ) (109 ) (31 ) (175 ) (206 ) (85 ) -78 % 97 47 % Less: (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest (4 ) (3 ) - 1 1 (1 ) -33 % (4 ) - % Net loss attributable to Warner Music Group Corp. $ (198 ) $ (112 ) $ (31 ) $ (174 ) $ (205 ) $ (86 ) -77 % $ 93 45 % OIBDA 2013 vs. 2012 Our OIBDA decreased by $20 million, or 6%, to $333 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 as compared to $353 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, total OIBDA margin decreased to 12% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, from 13% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.

Our OIBDA decrease is primarily due to the increase in selling, general and administrative expenses resulting from the Acquisition, specifically restructuring expense of $22 million, a transaction fee under the Management Agreement of $11 million and $38 million in integration costs and professional fees, which were $24 million higher than prior-period. The remaining increase of $37 million, excluding these items, was a result of an increase in revenue with a related increase in cost of revenues, decreases in selling, general and administrative expenses unrelated to the Acquisition, and an increase in selling and marketing expense of $32 million, primarily related to higher variable marketing due to higher revenues. Overall, this resulted in a decreased OIBDA margin.

61 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents 2012 vs. 2011 Our OIBDA increased by $63 million or 22%, to $353 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 as compared to $290 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, total OIBDA margin increased by 3% to 13% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 as compared to 10% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

Our OIBDA increase primarily reflected the prior-period charges for transaction costs incurred in connection with the consummation of the Merger and share-based compensation expense related to the payout for unvested Predecessor options and restricted stock awards as well as from the modification of certain restricted stock award agreements. Our OIBDA increase also reflected the strong current-year sales performance of Michael Bublé's "Christmas," which increased overall margin due to reductions in proportionate marketing spend, a strong back-end weighted release schedule particularly in Japan, the realization of cost savings from previously announced management initiatives and a cost-recovery benefit related to the early termination of an artist contract, partially offset by the prior-period benefit for the LimeWire settlement, increases in professional fees associated with our Management Agreement and costs related to the sale of EMI. In addition, our Music Publishing business improved its OIBDA margin as a result of a disciplined A&R investment and acquisition strategy focused on higher-margin assets.

See "Business Segment Results" presented hereinafter for a discussion of OIBDA by business segment.

Depreciation expense 2013 vs. 2012 Our depreciation expense remained flat at $51 million, for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.

2012 vs. 2011 Depreciation expense increased by $9 million, or 21%, to $51 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $42 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The increase was primarily due to recently completed capital projects and revaluation of depreciable assets recorded in connection with the Merger.

Amortization expense 2013 vs. 2012 Amortization expense increased by $14 million, or 7%, to $207 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $193 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 due to the Acquisition and the resulting increase in amortizable intangible assets.

2012 vs. 2011 Amortization expense decreased by $23 million, or 11%, to $193 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 to $216 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease was primarily related to revaluation of amortizable assets recorded in connection with the Merger, which resulted in longer useful lives of our intangible assets, partially offset by additional amortization associated with recent intangible asset acquisitions.

62-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Operating income (loss) 2013 vs. 2012 Our operating income decreased $34 million, or 31%, to $75 million, for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from operating income of $109 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Operating income margin decreased to 3% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 4% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The decrease in operating income was primarily due to the decrease in OIBDA and the increase in amortization expense as noted above.

2012 vs. 2011 Our operating income increased by $77 million to $109 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $32 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Operating income margin increased to 4% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, from 1% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The increase in operating income was primarily due to the increase in OIBDA and the decrease in amortization expense, partially offset by the increase in depreciation expense as noted above.

Loss on extinguishment of debt 2013 vs. 2012 On November 1, 2012, we completed a refinancing of our then outstanding Senior Secured Notes due 2016. As a result, we recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of approximately $83 million, representing the difference between the redemption payment and the carrying value of the debt as of the refinancing date. On June 21, 2013, we redeemed 10% of our then outstanding Senior Secured Notes due 2021. As a result, we recorded a loss on extinguishment of debt of approximately $2 million, which represents the premium paid on early redemption.

Interest expense, net 2013 vs. 2012 Our interest expense, net, decreased by $22 million, or 10%, to $203 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $225 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The decrease was primarily driven by the refinancing of our Senior Secured Notes due 2016 on November 1, 2012 and the modification of the Term Loan Facility on May 9, 2013, partially offset by the increase in debt related to the Acquisition. Our current debt obligations have lower comparable interest rates than the debt obligations outstanding in the prior period.

2012 vs. 2011 Interest expense, net, increased by $12 million, or 6%, to $225 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $213 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The increase was primarily driven by our new debt obligations, which were issued in connection with the refinancing of certain of our existing indebtedness in connection with the Merger at higher interest rates than the debt that was refinanced, partially offset by tender/call premiums of $19 million incurred in connection with the debt obligations that were repaid in full during the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

See "-Financial Condition and Liquidity" for more information.

63-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Other (expense) income, net 2013 vs. 2012 Other expense, net, includes net hedging losses on foreign exchange contracts, which represent currency exchange movements associated with intercompany receivables and payables that are short term in nature, and equity losses on our share of net income or loss on investments recorded in accordance with the equity method of accounting for an unconsolidated investee. The fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 also included a $7 million expense for the reimbursement of tax indemnities received in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 as a result of tax law changes in Germany. The fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 included a $7 million payment received for tax indemnities related to tax matters in Brazil.

2012 vs. 2011 Other income, net for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011 included net hedging gains on foreign exchange contracts, which represent currency exchange movements associated with intercompany receivables and payables that are short term in nature, offset by equity in earnings on our share of net income or loss on investments recorded in accordance with the equity method of accounting for an unconsolidated investee.

The increase in other income was driven by payments received for tax indemnities related to tax matters in Brazil.

Income tax benefit (expense) 2013 vs. 2012 We incurred income tax benefit of $31 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 as compared to an expense of $1 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The decrease in the income tax expense primarily relates to the recognition of deferred tax benefits for higher losses in certain foreign jurisdictions related to the Acquisition, the impact of a tax rate change in the U.K. and a tax benefit related to a German tax law change for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013.

2012 vs. 2011 We provided income tax expense of $1 million and $30 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve month ended September 30, 2011, respectively. The decrease in income tax expense primarily relates to the recognition in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 of deferred tax benefits for losses generated in various jurisdictions including the U.S. and the impact of tax rate changes in the U.K. and Japan.

Net loss 2013 vs. 2012 Our net loss increased by $85 million, to a net loss of $194 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 as compared to a net loss of $109 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The increased loss was driven by the loss on extinguishment of debt, the decrease in operating income noted above, and the increase in other expense, partially offset by lower interest expense and lower income tax expense.

2012 vs. 2011 Our net loss decreased by $97 million to $109 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, as compared to $206 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in net loss was driven primarily by the increase in operating income and lower income tax expense, partially offset by increases in interest expense, net as noted above.

64-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Noncontrolling interest 2013 vs. 2012 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests was $4 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and $3 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.

2012 vs. 2011 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 was $3 million and net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011 was $1 million.

Business Segment Results Revenue, OIBDA and operating income (loss) by business segment are as follows (in millions): For the Successor Predecessor Combined For the Fiscal For the Fiscal From July 20, From October 1, Twelve Year Ended Year Ended 2011 through 2010 Months ended 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 September 30, September 30, September 30, through July 19, September 30, 2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % Change Recorded Music Revenue $ 2,389 $ 2,281 $ 457 $ 1,890 $ 2,347 $ 108 5 % $ (66 ) -3 % OIBDA 270 289 49 238 287 (19 ) -7 % 2 - % Operating income $ 92 $ 126 $ 18 $ 97 $ 115 $ (34 ) -27 % $ 11 9 % Music Publishing Revenue $ 503 $ 518 $ 103 $ 436 $ 539 $ (15 ) -3 % $ (21 ) -4 % OIBDA 148 146 50 92 142 2 1 % 4 3 % Operating income $ 81 $ 79 $ 38 $ 30 $ 68 $ 2 3 % $ 11 16 % Corporate Expenses and Eliminations Revenue $ (21 ) $ (19 ) $ (4 ) $ (15 ) $ (19 ) $ (2 ) -11 % - % - % OIBDA (85 ) (82 ) (18 ) (121 ) (139 ) (3 ) -4 % 57 41 % Operating loss $ (98 ) $ (96 ) $ (22 ) $ (129 ) $ (151 ) (2 ) -2 % $ 55 36 % Total Revenue $ 2,871 $ 2,780 $ 556 $ 2,311 $ 2,867 $ 91 3 % $ (87 ) -3 % OIBDA 333 353 81 209 290 (20 ) -6 % 63 22 % Operating income (loss) $ 75 $ 109 $ 34 $ (2 ) $ 32 $ (34 ) -31 % $ 77 - % Recorded Music Revenues 2013 vs. 2012 Recorded Music revenues increased by $108 million, or 5%, to $2.389 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $2.281 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $973 million and $915 million, or 41% and 40% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.

International Recorded Music revenues were $1.416 billion and $1.366 billion, or 59% and 60% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.

The overall increase in Recorded Music revenue reflected growth in digital revenues, which more than offset the continued decline in physical sales, as well as increases in artist services and expanded-rights revenue and licensing revenue. The decrease in physical sales was driven by the ongoing transition from physical to digital sales as well as the comparatively strong prior-period performance of Michael Bublé's "Christmas" album 65-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents and key local releases in Japan, which were more heavily weighted towards physical sales. The current period included the success of Led Zeppelin's "Celebration Day" which was more heavily weighted towards physical sales.

Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, physical revenues declined $90 million.

Digital revenues continued to grow, up $132 million, or 15%, in the current period and more than offset the declines in physical revenue for a second consecutive year. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, digital revenues increased $106 million. The increase was driven by strong growth in downloads, which increased $50 million, and in streaming and subscription services, which increased $75 million, offset by the decline in mobile revenue of $19 million which, reflected the continued decrease in demand for ringtones and ringback tones. The increases were attributable to current-period releases such as Bruno Mars' "Unorthodox Jukebox" and current period releases under third-party distribution deals, as well as continued success from prior-period releases with strong digital carryover sales from Flo Rida and fun. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, artist services and expanded-rights revenue increased $21 million due to timing of tours in Europe and Asia and higher merchandising revenue in the U.S. Excluding the impact of the Acquisition, licensing revenues increased $12 million primarily due to timing. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total Recorded Music revenues increased by $150 million, or 7%.

2012 vs. 2011 Recorded Music revenues decreased by $66 million, or 3%, to $2.281 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, from $2.347 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. U.S. Recorded Music revenues were $915 million and $961 million, or 40% and 41% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. International Recorded Music revenues were $1.366 billion and $1.386 billion, or 60% and 59% of consolidated Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total Recorded Music revenues decreased by $20 million, or 1%.

This performance reflected the ongoing impact of the transition from physical to digital sales offset by the current-year success of Michael Bublé's "Christmas" album and key local releases in Japan. In addition, growth in digital revenues more than offset physical revenue declines in our Recorded Music business.

Artist services and expanded-rights revenues decreased primarily due to a decline in concert promotion revenue resulting from a strong touring schedule in France in the prior period which was not duplicated in the current year.

Licensing revenues decreased due primarily to timing. The increase in digital revenues was driven by an increase in revenue from streaming and subscription services of $58 million, growth in digital download revenue of $70 million mainly in the U.S., Latin America and certain European territories, partially offset by a $32 million decline in global ringtone revenue.

Recorded Music cost of revenues was composed of the following amounts (in millions): For the Successor Predecessor Combined For the Year For the Year From July 20, From Twelve Ended Ended 2011 through October 1, 2010 Months ended 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 September 30, September 30, September 30, through July 19, September 30, 2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % Change Artist and repertoire costs $ 681 $ 679 $ 131 $ 560 $ 691 $ 2 - $ (12 ) -2 % Product costs 543 490 119 428 547 53 11 % (57 ) -10 % Total cost of revenues $ 1,224 $ 1,169 $ 250 $ 988 $ 1,238 $ 55 5 % $ (69 ) -6 % 66 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Cost of revenues 2013 vs. 2012 Recorded Music cost of revenues increased by $55 million, or 5%, to $1.224 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $1.169 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, primarily as a result of the increase in revenue. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenues, cost of revenues remained flat at 51% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.

2012 vs. 2011 Recorded Music cost of revenues decreased by $69 million, or 6%, to $1.169 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $1.238 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Cost of revenues represented 51% and 53% of Recorded Music revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. The decrease in product costs was primarily the result of the decrease in physical revenue in the current-year and lower artist services revenue from our European concert promotion businesses. Costs associated with our artist services businesses are primarily recorded as a component of product costs. The decrease in artist and repertoire costs was driven by the decrease in revenue for the current period, the timing of our artist and repertoire spend and a cost-recovery benefit related to the early termination of an artist contract.

Recorded Music selling, general and administrative expenses were composed of the following amounts (in millions): For the Successor Predecessor Combined For the Year For the Year From July 20, Twelve Ended Ended 2011 through From October 1, Months ended September 30, September 30, September 30, 2010 through September 30, 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 2013 2012 2011 July 19, 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % Change General and administrative expense (1) $ 451 $ 414 $ 74 $ 309 $ 383 $ 37 9 % $ 31 8 % Selling and marketing expense 417 385 77 330 407 32 8 % (22 ) -5 % Distribution expense 59 55 12 46 58 4 7 % (3 ) -5 % Total selling, general and administrative expense $ 927 $ 854 $ 163 $ 685 $ 848 $ 73 9 % $ 6 1 % (1) Includes depreciation expense of $32 million, $31 million, and $26 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

Selling, general and administrative expense 2013 vs. 2012 Recorded Music selling, general and administrative expense increased by $73 million, or 9%, to $927 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $854 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. This increase was primarily due to higher general and administrative expense and selling and marketing expense. The $37 million increase in general and administrative expense was due to $8 million of share-based compensation expense, $11 million of a transaction fee under the Management Agreement related to the Acquisition, $22 million of restructuring expense, and a $36 million increase in professional fees and integration costs associated with the Acquisition. This was partially offset by lower variable compensation and $26 million lower severance. The current period results do not yet reflect the expected synergies from the Acquisition, which may not be realized in full. The $32 million increase in selling and marketing expense was primarily the result of variable marketing increases related to current-period releases compared to prior-period releases.

Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenues, selling, general and administrative expense increased to 39% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 37% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.

67-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents 2012 vs. 2011 Selling, general and administrative costs increased by $6 million, or 1%, to $854 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $848 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 37% for fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from 36% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The increase in selling, general and administrative expense was driven primarily by the increase in general and administrative expense, partially offset by the decrease in selling and marketing expense and distribution expense. The increase in general and administrative expense was driven by an increase in severance charges and an increase in depreciation expense resulting from recently completed capital projects and purchase price accounting recorded in connection with the Merger as well as the prior period benefit for the LimeWire settlement, partially offset by the realization of cost savings from previously announced management initiatives and a prior period charge for share-based compensation expense. The decrease in selling and marketing expense was driven by our continued efforts to better align spending on selling and marketing expense with revenues earned. The decrease in distribution expense was driven by the ongoing transition from physical to digital sales.

OIBDA and Operating income Recorded Music operating income included the following amounts (in millions): For the Successor Predecessor Combined For the Year For the Year From July 20, From Twelve Ended Ended 2011 through October 1, 2010 Months ended September 30, September 30, September 30, through July 19, September 30, 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % Change OIBDA $ 270 $ 289 $ 49 $ 238 $ 287 $ (19 ) -7 % $ 2 1 % Depreciation and amortization expense (178 ) (163 ) (31 ) (141 ) (172 ) (15 ) -9 % 9 5 % Operating Income $ 92 $ 126 $ 18 $ 97 $ 115 $ (34 ) -27 % $ 11 10 % 2013 vs. 2012 Recorded Music OIBDA decreased by $19 million, or 7%, to $270 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $289 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenues, Recorded Music OIBDA margin decreased to 11% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 13% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Our Recorded Music OIBDA and OIBDA margin decrease was primarily driven by the increase in costs as a percentage of revenue for selling, general and administrative expense.

Recorded Music operating income decreased by $34 million, or 27%, due to the decrease in OIBDA noted above and the additional depreciation and amortization expense, primarily relating to amortization of intangible assets acquired from PLG.

2012 vs. 2011 Recorded Music OIBDA increased by $2 million, or 1%, to $289 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $287 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Expressed as a percentage of Recorded Music revenues, Recorded Music OIBDA margin increased to 13% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from12% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Our Recorded Music OIBDA results reflected the prior period benefit for the LimeWire settlement, a decrease in revenue, an increase in severance charges and an increase in costs related to the sale of EMI, offset by the strong current-year sales performance of Michael Bublé's "Christmas," which increased overall margin due to reductions in proportionate marketing spend, a strong release schedule in Japan, the realization of cost savings from previously announced management initiatives, the decrease in selling and marketing expense, a cost recovery benefit related to the early termination of an artist contract and prior period share-based compensation expense.

68-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Recorded Music operating income increased by $11 million, or 10%, due to a decrease in amortization expense driven by the extended useful lives of certain intangible assets recorded in connection with the Merger, partially offset by an increase in depreciation expense. Recorded Music operating income margin increased to 6% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from 5% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

Music Publishing Revenues 2013 vs. 2012 Music Publishing revenues decreased by $15 million, or 3%, to $503 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $518 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $188 million and $198 million, or 37% and 38%, of Music Publishing revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $315 million and $320 million, or 63% and 62%, of Music Publishing revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.

The overall decrease in Music Publishing revenue was driven primarily by the continued decline in mechanical revenue and a decline in synchronization revenue, partially offset by the increase in digital revenue. The decrease in mechanical revenue reflected the impact of the ongoing transition from physical to digital sales in the music industry as well as the decision to exit certain lower-margin deals in the prior period. The decrease in synchronization revenue reflected lower overall demand in the commercial and videogame market. The increase in digital revenue reflected continued growth in digital downloads of $6 million and streaming and subscription services of $10 million. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total Music Publishing revenues decreased by $12 million, or 2%.

2012 vs. 2011 Music Publishing revenues decreased by $21 million, or 4%, to $518 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $539 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. U.S. Music Publishing revenues were $198 million and $191 million, or 38% and 35% of Music Publishing revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. International Music Publishing revenues were $320 million and $348 million, or 62% and 65% of Music Publishing revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Excluding the unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, total Music Publishing revenues decreased by $3 million, or 1%.

The decrease in Music Publishing revenue was driven primarily by decreases in mechanical revenue and performance revenue, partially offset by an increase in digital revenue. The decrease in mechanical revenue reflected the impact of the ongoing transition from physical to digital sales in the recorded music industry and the decision to exit certain lower-margin administration deals. The decrease in performance revenue was driven primarily by a reduction in U.S. radio license fees and a market decline in the U.K., partially offset by a stronger advertising market, strong chart positions and recent acquisitions. The increase in digital revenue was driven by the growth of global digital downloads of $7 million and the continued success of streaming services of $4 million offset by declines of $4 million in global ringtone revenue.

69-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Music Publishing cost of revenues was composed of the following amounts (in millions): For the Successor Predecessor Combined For the Year For the Year From July 20, From October 1, Twelve Months Ended Ended 2011 through 2010 ended September 30, September 30, September 30, through July 19, September 30, 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 $Change % Change $ Change % Change Artist and repertoire costs $ 296 $ 309 $ 42 $ 288 $ 330 $ (13 ) -4 % $ (21 ) -6 % Total cost of revenues $ 296 $ 309 $ 42 $ 288 $ 330 $ (13 ) -4 % $ (21 ) -6 % Cost of revenues 2013 vs. 2012 Music Publishing cost of revenues decreased by $13 million, or 4%, to $296 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $309 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenues, Music Publishing cost of revenues decreased to 59% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 60% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 as a result of the shift towards higher margin deals.

2012 vs. 2011 Music Publishing cost of revenues decreased by $21 million, or 6%, to $309 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $330 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenues, Music Publishing cost of revenues decreased from 61% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011 to 60% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The decrease was driven primarily as a result of a disciplined A&R investment and acquisition strategy focused on higher-margin assets, partially offset by a year-over-year increase in unproven artist spend.

Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expenses were comprised of the following amounts (in millions): For the Successor Predecessor Combined For the Year For the Year From July 20, From October 1, Twelve Months Ended Ended 2011 through 2010 through ended 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 September 30, September 30, September 30, July 19, September 30, 2012 2012 2011 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change % Change General and administrative expense (1) $ 63 $ 67 $ 9 $ 58 $ 67 $ (4 ) -6 % $ - - % Selling and marketing expense 2 2 1 1 2 - - % - - % Total selling, general and administrative expense $ 65 $ 69 $ 10 $ 59 $ 69 $ (4 ) -6 % $ - - % (1) Includes depreciation expense of $6 million, $6 million, and $4 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.

70 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Selling, general and administrative expense 2013 vs. 2012 Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expense decreased by $4 million, or 6%, to $65 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $69 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, primarily due to lower variable compensation and $3 million lower severance expense recorded within general and administrative expense. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenues, Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expense remained flat at 13% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 and the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.

2012 vs. 2011 Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expense was $69 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenues, Music Publishing selling, general and administrative expense also remained flat at 13% for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012 and for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

OIBDA and Operating income Music Publishing operating income includes the following amounts (in millions): For the Successor Predecessor Combined Twelve For the Year For the Year From July 20, From Months Ended Ended 2011 through October 1, 2010 ended September 30, September 30, September 30, through July 19, September 30, 2013 vs. 2012 2012 vs. 2011 2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 $ Change % Change $ Change %Change OIBDA $ 148 $ 146 $ 50 $ 92 $ 142 $ 2 1 % $ 4 3 % Depreciation and amortization expense (67 ) (67 ) (12 ) (62 ) (74 ) - - % 7 -9 % Operating Income $ 81 $ 79 $ 38 $ 30 $ 68 $ 2 3 % $ 11 16 % 2013 vs. 2012 Music Publishing OIBDA increased by $2 million, or 1%, to $148 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $146 million for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2012 primarily as a result of a decrease in selling, general and administrative expense. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenues, Music Publishing OIBDA margin increased to 29% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from 28% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 primarily due to the shift towards higher-margin deals.

Music Publishing operating income increased by $2 million due to the increase in OIBDA noted above.

2012 vs. 2011 Music Publishing OIBDA increased by $4 million, or 3%, to $146 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from $142 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Expressed as a percentage of Music Publishing revenues, Music Publishing OIBDA increased to 28% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 from 26% for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The increase in OIBDA margin was primarily the result of a disciplined A&R investment and acquisition strategy focused on higher-margin assets, lower severance charges taken during the current period and the prior-period charge incurred in connection with the consummation of the Merger related to a change in control fee, partially offset by an increase in unproven artist spend.

71-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Music Publishing operating income increased by $11 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 due primarily to the increase in OIBDA noted above and lower amortization expense driven by the extended useful lives of certain intangible assets recorded in connection with the Merger, partially offset by the increase in depreciation expense.

Corporate Expenses and Eliminations 2013 vs. 2012 Our OIBDA loss from corporate expenses and eliminations increased by $3 million to $85 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $82 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012. The increase was mainly due higher share-based compensation expense partially offset by lower severance expense in the current period.

Our operating loss from corporate expenses and eliminations increased by $2 million to $98 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 from $96 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 due to the increase of $3 million in OIBDA loss noted above offset by a decrease of $1 million in depreciation expense.

2012 vs. 2011 Our OIBDA loss from corporate expenses and eliminations decreased by $57 million to $82 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, from $139 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, primarily as a result of the realization of cost savings from previously announced management initiatives, lower severance charges, prior-period charges for share-based compensation expense and transaction costs incurred in connection with the consummation of the Merger, partially offset by an increase in professional fees related to the sale of EMI and our annual fees related to the Management Agreement.

Our operating loss from corporate expenses and eliminations decreased to $96 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, from $151 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in operating loss was primarily driven by the decrease in corporate expenses noted above, partially offset by an increase in depreciation expense.

72-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY Financial Condition at September 30, 2013 At September 30, 2013, we had $2.867 billion of debt, $155 million of cash and equivalents (net debt of $2.712 billion, defined as total debt less cash and equivalents and short-term investments) and $726 million of Warner Music Group Corp. equity. This compares to $2.206 billion of debt, $302 million of cash and equivalents (net debt of $1.904 billion) and $927 million of Warner Music Group Corp. equity at September 30, 2012. Net debt increased by $808 million as a result of (i) $661 million of additional net debt borrowed in the current year in connection with our acquisition of PLG and (ii) a $147 million decrease in cash.

The $201 million decrease in Warner Music Group Corp.'s equity during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 was primarily due to our $198 million net loss.

Cash Flows The following table summarizes our historical cash flows. The financial data for fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 (Successor), for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 (Successor), for the period from July 20, 2011 through September 30, 2011 (Successor) and for the period from October 1, 2010 to July 19, 2011 (Predecessor) have been derived from our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein.

Successor Predecessor For the From Combined For the Fiscal For the Fiscal October 1, Twelve Year Ended Year Ended From July 20, 2011 2010 Months ended September 30, September 30, through through September 30, Cash Provided By (Used In): 2013 2012 September 30, 2011 July 19, 2011 2011 (in millions) Operating activities $ 159 $ 209 $ (64 ) $ 12 $ (52 ) Investing activities (808 ) (58 ) (1,292 ) (155 ) (1,447 ) Financing activities 511 (3 ) 1,199 5 1,204 Operating Activities Cash provided by operating activities was $159 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 compared to $209 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and cash used in operating activities of $52 million for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in results from operating activities in fiscal 2013 reflected the decrease in our OIBDA driven primarily by higher integration costs and professional fees related to the Acquisition, changes in working capital associated with the operations of the business and the increase in cash paid for interest of $13 million due to the timing of interest payments. The increase in results from operating activities in fiscal 2012 reflected the increase in our OIBDA driven primarily by the absence of transaction costs in 2012 that were incurred in connection with the Merger during the twelve months ended September 30, 2011, the timing of our working capital requirements and the decrease in cash paid for interest of $17 million.

Investing Activities Cash used in investing activities was $808 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, compared to $58 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and $1.447 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011. Cash used in investing activities of $808 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 consisted of $37 million to acquire music publishing rights, $34 million for capital expenditures related to IT and $737 million, net of cash acquired, for business acquisitions, primarily the acquisition of PLG.

Cash used in investing activities of $58 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 consisted of $32 million to acquire music publishing rights, $32 million for capital expenditures primarily related to IT and $8 million to acquire businesses, net of cash acquired, partially offset by $12 million received for the sale of a building and $2 million received for the sale of a recorded music catalog.

73 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Cash used in investing activities of $1.447 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011 consisted of $48 million of capital expenditures primarily related to IT infrastructure improvements, cash used of $62 million to acquire music publishing rights, $59 million to acquire businesses, net of cash acquired and $1.278 billion related to the purchase of shares of our common stock in connection with the Merger.

Financing Activities Cash provided by financing activities was $511 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 compared to cash used in financing activities of $3 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and cash provided by financing activities of $1.204 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011.

Cash provided by financing activities of $511 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 consisted of proceeds from the issuance of New Senior Secured Notes of $727 million and subsequent repayment of $73 million, proceeds from the Term Loan Facility of $1.412 billion and subsequent repayment of $110 million, offset by repayment of $1.250 billion of Old Secured Notes, $95 million of tender/call premiums and $34 million of consent fees paid on early redemption of debt, $62 million of deferred financing costs paid for refinancing and $4 million of distributions to noncontrolling interest holders. Cash used in financing activities of $3 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 consisted of distributions to our noncontrolling interest holders. Cash provided by financing activities of $1.204 billion for the twelve months ended September 30, 2011 consisted primarily of a capital contribution received from Parent of $1.099 billion, net proceeds from the issuance of the Unsecured WMG Notes of $747 million, net proceeds from the issuance of the Second Tranche of Old Secured Notes of $157 million, proceeds from the issuance of the Holdings Notes of $150 million and proceeds from the exercise of stock options of $6 million, partially offset by full repayment of the Old Acquisition Corp. Notes of $626 million, the full repayment of the Old Holdings Notes of $258 million, deferred financing fees related to new debt obligations of $70 million and distributions to our noncontrolling interest holders of $1 million.

Liquidity Our primary sources of liquidity are the cash flows generated from our subsidiaries' operations, available cash and equivalents and funds available for drawing under our Revolving Credit Facility. These sources of liquidity are needed to fund our debt service requirements, working capital requirements, capital expenditure requirements, strategic acquisitions and investments, including the closing working capital adjustment in connection with our acquisition of PLG, if any, and any dividends, prepayments of debt or repurchases of our outstanding notes in open market purchases, privately negotiated purchases or otherwise we may elect to pay or make in the future. We believe that our existing sources of cash will be sufficient to support our existing operations over the next fiscal year.

Existing Debt as of September 30, 2013 As of September 30, 2013 (Successor), our long-term debt, including the current portion, was as follows (in millions): Revolving Credit Facility (a) $ - Term Loan Facility due 2020-Acquisition Corp. (b) 1,303 6.00% Senior Secured Notes due 2021-Acquisition Corp. 450 6.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2021-Acquisition Corp. (c) 213 11.5% Senior Notes due 2018-Acquisition Corp. (d) 751 13.75% Senior Notes due 2019-Holdings 150 Total long-term debt, including the current portion $ 2,867 (a) Reflects $150 million of commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility, less letters of credit outstanding of approximately $1 million at September 30, 2013 (Successor). There were no loans outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility as of September 30, 2013 (Successor).

74 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents (b) Principal amount of $1.310 billion less unamortized discount of $7 million.

Of this amount, $13 million, representing the scheduled amortization of the Term Loan, was included in the current portion of long term debt at September 30, 2013 (Successor).

(c) Face amount of €158 million. Amount above represents the dollar equivalent of such notes at September 30, 2013 (Successor).

(d) Face amount of $765 million less unamortized discounts of $14 million and $16 million at September 30, 2013 (Successor) and September 30, 2012 (Successor), respectively.

Revolving Credit Facility On November 1, 2012 (the "2012 Refinancing Closing Date"), Acquisition Corp.

entered into a credit agreement (the "Revolving Credit Agreement") for a senior secured revolving credit facility with Credit Suisse AG, as administrative agent, and the other financial institutions and lenders from time to time party thereto (the "Revolving Credit Facility").

General Acquisition Corp. is the borrower (the "Revolving Borrower") under the Revolving Credit Facility. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for a revolving credit facility in the amount of up to $150,000,000 (the "Commitments") and includes a $50,000,000 letter of credit sub-facility. Amounts are available under the Revolving Credit Facility in U.S. dollars, euros or pounds Sterling. The Revolving Credit Facility permits loans for general corporate purposes. The Revolving Credit Facility may also be utilized to issue letters of credit on or after the 2012 Refinancing Closing Date.

The final maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility is November 1, 2017.

Interest Rates and Fees Effective as of May 9, 2013, the loans under the Revolving Credit Agreement bear interest at Revolving Borrower's election at a rate equal to (i) the rate for deposits in the currency in which the applicable borrowing is denominated in the London interbank market (adjusted for maximum reserves) for the applicable interest period ("Revolving LIBOR Rate"), plus 2.00% per annum, or (ii) the base rate, which is the highest of (x) the corporate base rate established by the administrative agent from time to time, (y) the overnight federal funds rate plus 0.50% and (z) the one-month Revolving LIBOR Rate plus 1.0% per annum ("Revolving Base Rate"), plus, in each case, 1.00% per annum.

If there is a payment default at any time, then the interest rate applicable to overdue principal will be the rate otherwise applicable to such loan plus 2.0% per annum. Default interest will also be payable on other overdue amounts at a rate of 2.0% per annum above the amount that would apply to an alternative base rate loan.

The Revolving Credit Facility bears a facility fee equal to 0.50%, payable quarterly in arrears, based on the daily commitments during the preceding quarter. The Revolving Credit Facility bears customary letter of credit fees.

Acquisition Corp. is also required to pay certain upfront fees to lenders and agency fees to the agent under the Revolving Credit Facility, in the amounts and at the times agreed between the relevant parties.

Prepayments If, at any time, the aggregate amount of outstanding loans (including letters of credit outstanding thereunder) exceeds the Commitments, prepayments of the loans (and after giving effect to such prepayment the cash collateralization of letters of credit) will be required in an amount equal to such excess. The application of proceeds from mandatory prepayments shall not reduce the aggregate amount of then effective commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility and amounts prepaid may be reborrowed, subject to then effective commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility.

75-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Voluntary reductions of the unutilized portion of the Commitments and prepayments of borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility are permitted at any time, in minimum principal amounts as set forth in the Revolving Credit Facility, without premium or penalty, subject to reimbursement of the lenders' redeployment costs actually incurred in the case of a prepayment of LIBOR-based borrowings other than on the last day of the relevant interest period.

Ranking The indebtedness incurred under the Revolving Credit Facility constitutes senior secured obligations of the Revolving Borrower, which are secured on an equal and ratable basis with all existing and future indebtedness secured with the same security arrangements as the Revolving Credit Facility. Indebtedness incurred under the Revolving Credit Facility ranks senior in right of payment to the Revolving Borrower's subordinated indebtedness; ranks equally in right of payment with all of the Revolving Borrower's existing and future senior indebtedness, including indebtedness under the Term Loan Credit Agreement (as defined below), the New Secured Notes and any future senior secured credit facility; is effectively senior to the Revolving Borrower's unsecured senior indebtedness, including its existing unsecured notes, to the extent of the value of the collateral securing the Revolving Credit Facility; and is structurally subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities of any of the Revolving Borrower's non-guarantor subsidiaries (other than indebtedness and liabilities owed to the Revolving Borrower or one of its Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined below)).

Guarantee Certain of the domestic subsidiaries of Acquisition Corp. entered into a Subsidiary Guaranty, dated as of the 2012 Refinancing Closing Date (the "Revolving Subsidiary Guaranty"), pursuant to which all obligations under the Revolving Credit Facility are guaranteed by Acquisition Corp.'s existing subsidiaries that guarantee the New Secured Notes and each other direct and indirect wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, other than certain excluded subsidiaries (collectively, the "Subsidiary Guarantors").

Covenants, Representations and Warranties The Revolving Credit Facility contains customary representations and warranties and customary affirmative and negative covenants. The negative covenants are limited to the following: limitations on dividends on, and redemptions and purchases of, equity interests and other restricted payments, limitations on prepayments, redemptions and repurchases of certain debt, limitations on liens, limitations on loans and investments, limitations on debt, guarantees and hedging arrangements, limitations on mergers, acquisitions and asset sales, limitations on transactions with affiliates, limitations on changes in business conducted by the Revolving Borrower and its subsidiaries, limitations on restrictions on ability of subsidiaries to pay dividends or make distributions and limitations on amendments of subordinated debt and unsecured bonds. The negative covenants are subject to customary and other specified exceptions.

There are no financial covenants included in the Revolving Credit Agreement, other than a springing leverage ratio, which will be tested only when there are loans outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility in excess of $30,000,000 (excluding (i) letters of credit that have been cash collateralized and (ii) undrawn outstanding letters of credit that have not been cash collateralized not exceeding $20,000,000).

Events of Default Events of default under the Revolving Credit Agreement are limited to nonpayment of principal, interest or other amounts, violation of covenants, incorrectness of representations and warranties in any material respect, cross default and cross acceleration of certain material debt, bankruptcy, material judgments, ERISA events, actual or asserted invalidities of the Revolving Credit Agreement, guarantees or security documents and a change of control, in each case subject to customary notice and grace period provisions.

76-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Amendment Acquisition Corp. entered into an amendment, dated April 23, 2013 (the "Revolving Credit Agreement Amendment") to the Revolving Credit Agreement. The Revolving Credit Agreement Amendment reduced the applicable interest rate margin under the Revolving Credit Agreement and increased flexibility under the Revolving Credit Agreement to make investments in non-guarantors so as to permit internal reorganizations and optimization of ownership structure in foreign subsidiaries.

Term Loan Facility On the 2012 Refinancing Closing Date, Acquisition Corp. entered into a credit agreement (the "Term Loan Credit Agreement") for a senior secured term loan credit facility with Credit Suisse AG, as administrative agent, and the other financial institutions and lenders from time to time party thereto (the "Term Loan Facility" and, together with the Revolving Credit Facility, the "New Senior Credit Facilities").

General Acquisition Corp. is the borrower (the "Term Loan Borrower") under the Term Loan Facility. The Term Loan Facility provides for term loans thereunder (the "Term Loans") in an amount of up to $600 million. On May 9, 2013, Acquisition Corp.

entered into an amendment to the Term Loan Facility among Acquisition Corp, Holdings, the subsidiaries of Acquisition Corp. party thereto, Credit Suisse AG, as administrative agent, and the other financial institutions and lenders from time to time party thereto (the "Term Loan Credit Agreement Amendment"), providing for a $820 million delayed draw senior secured term loan facility (the "Incremental Term Loan Facility").

The loans outstanding under the Amended Term Loan Credit Agreement mature on July 1, 2020, with a springing maturity date on July 2, 2018 in the event that more than $153 million aggregate principal amount of the 11.50% Senior Notes of Acquisition Corp. due October 1, 2018 (the "Unsecured WMG Notes") are outstanding on June 28, 2018 unless, on June 28, 2018, the senior secured indebtedness to EBITDA ratio of Acquisition Corp. is less than or equal to 3.50 to 1.00.

Interest Rates and Fees The loans under the Term Loan Credit Agreement bear interest at Term Loan Borrower's election at a rate equal to (i) the rate for deposits in U.S. dollars in the London interbank market (adjusted for maximum reserves) for the applicable interest period ("Term Loan LIBOR Rate"), plus 2.75% per annum, or (ii) the base rate, which is the highest of (x) the corporate base rate established by the administrative agent from time to time, (y) the overnight federal funds rate plus 0.50% and (z) the one-month Term Loan LIBOR Rate plus 1.0% per annum ("Term Loan Base Rate"), plus, in each case, 1.75% per annum. The Term Loan LIBOR Rate shall be deemed to be not less than 1.00%.

If there is a payment default at any time, then the interest rate applicable to overdue principal and interest will be the rate otherwise applicable to such loan plus 2.0% per annum. Default interest will also be payable on other overdue amounts at a rate of 2.0% per annum above the amount that would apply to an alternative base rate loan.

Customary fees will be payable in respect of the Term Loan Facility.

Scheduled Amortization Loans outstanding under the Amended Term Loan Credit Agreement will amortize in equal quarterly installments in aggregate annual amounts equal to 1.00% of the original principal amount of indebtedness outstanding under the Amended Term Loan Credit Agreement with the balance payable on the maturity date of the term loans. The first quarterly installment is scheduled to be paid on December 31, 2013. The loans 77 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents outstanding under the Amended Term Loan Credit Agreement mature on July 1, 2020, with a springing maturity date on July 2, 2018 in the event that more than $153 million aggregate principal amount of the 11.50% Senior Notes of Acquisition Corp. due October 1, 2018 (the "Unsecured WMG Notes") are outstanding on June 28, 2018 unless, on June 28, 2018, the senior secured indebtedness to EBITDA ratio of Acquisition Corp. is less than or equal to 3.50 to 1.00.

Prepayments The Term Loans may be prepaid without premium or penalty, except that, if such Term Loans are prepaid on or prior to the first anniversary of the 2012 Refinancing Closing Date pursuant to a Repricing Transaction (as defined in the Term Loan Credit Agreement), a 1.00% prepayment premium will apply.

Subject to certain exceptions, the Term Loan Facility will be subject to mandatory prepayment in an amount equal to: (i) 100% of the net proceeds (other than those that are used to purchase certain assets or to repay certain other indebtedness) of certain asset sales and certain insurance recovery events; (ii) 100% of the net proceeds (other than those that are used to repay certain other indebtedness) of indebtedness for borrowed money (other than indebtedness incurred in compliance with the debt covenant of the Term Loan Facility); and (iii) 50% of the annual excess cash flow for any fiscal year (as reduced by the repayment of certain indebtedness), such percentage to decrease to 25% and 0% depending on the attainment of certain senior secured debt to EBITDA ratio targets.

In addition, in the event of certain events that constitute a Change of Control (as defined in the Term Loan Credit Agreement), Acquisition Corp. may offer to prepay the Term Loans at a price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the repayment date.

Ranking The indebtedness incurred under the Term Loan Facility constitutes senior secured obligations of the Term Loan Borrower, which are secured on an equal and ratable basis with all existing and future indebtedness secured with the same security arrangements as the Term Loan Facility. Indebtedness incurred under the Term Loan Facility ranks senior in right of payment to the Term Loan Borrower's subordinated indebtedness; ranks equally in right of payment with all of the Term Loan Borrower's existing and future senior indebtedness, including indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility, the New Secured Notes and any future senior secured credit facility; is effectively senior to the Term Loan Borrower's unsecured senior indebtedness, including its existing unsecured notes, to the extent of the value of the collateral securing the Term Loan Facility; and is structurally subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities of any of the Term Loan Borrower's non-guarantor subsidiaries (other than indebtedness and liabilities owed to the Term Loan Borrower or one of its Subsidiary Guarantors).

Guarantee The Subsidiary Guarantors entered into a Guarantee Agreement, dated as of the 2012 Refinancing Closing Date (the "Term Loan Guarantee Agreement"), pursuant to which all obligations under the Term Loan Facility are guaranteed by the Subsidiary Guarantors.

Covenants, Representations and Warranties The Term Loan Facility contains customary representations and warranties and customary affirmative and negative covenants. The Term Loan Facility contains negative covenants limiting, among other things, Acquisition Corp.'s ability and the ability of most of its subsidiaries to: incur additional indebtedness or issue certain preferred shares; pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of its capital stock or make 78-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents investments or other restricted payments; create restrictions on the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends to it or make certain other intercompany transfers; sell certain assets; create liens; consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets; repurchase or repay certain indebtedness following a change of control; and enter into certain transactions with its affiliates.

Events of Default Events of default under the Term Loan Credit Agreement are limited to nonpayment of principal, interest or other amounts, violation of covenants, incorrectness of representations and warranties in any material respect, cross default and cross acceleration of certain material debt, bankruptcy, material judgments, ERISA events, actual or asserted invalidities of the security documents and a change of control (subject to the Term Loan Borrower's ability to make an offer to prepay the Term Loans), in each case subject to customary notice and grace period provisions.

Term Loan Credit Agreement Amendment On May 9, 2013, Acquisition Corp. entered into the Term Loan Credit Agreement Amendment to the Term Loan Credit Agreement, among Acquisition Corp., Holdings, the subsidiaries of Acquisition Corp. party thereto, Credit Suisse AG, as administrative agent, and the other financial institutions and lenders from time to time party thereto. The Amended Term Loan Credit Agreement provided for a $820 million delayed draw senior secured term loan facility (the "Incremental Term Loan Facility") and the Term Loan Credit Agreement Amendment (i) effectuated a reduction of the applicable interest margin and the Term Loan LIBOR Rate floor for term loans outstanding on the date of the amendment and (ii) extended the maturity of term loans outstanding on the date of the amendment.

On May 9, 2013, Acquisition Corp. prepaid $102.5 million in aggregate principal amount of term loans under the Term Loan Facility.

New Secured Notes On the 2012 Refinancing Closing Date, Acquisition Corp. issued (i) $500 million in aggregate principal amount of its 6.000% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 (the "Dollar Notes") and (ii) €175 million in aggregate principal amount of its 6.250% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 (the "Euro Notes" and, together with the Dollar Notes, the "New Secured Notes" or the "Notes") under the Indenture, dated as of November 1, 2012 (the "Base Indenture"), among the Issuer, the guarantors party thereto, Credit Suisse AG, as Notes Authorized Agent and Collateral Agent and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (the "Trustee"), as supplemented by the First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 1, 2012 (the "Euro Supplemental Indenture"), among Acquisition Corp., the guarantors party thereto and the Trustee, in the case of the Euro Notes, and the Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 1, 2012, among the Issuer, the guarantors party thereto and the Trustee, in the case of the Dollar Notes (the "Dollar Supplemental Indenture" and, the Base Indenture, together with the Euro Supplemental Indenture or the Dollar Supplemental Indenture, as applicable, the "Indenture").

Interest on the Dollar Notes will accrue at the rate of 6.000% per annum and will be payable semi-annually in arrears on January 15 and July 15, commencing on July 15, 2013.

Interest on the Euro Notes will accrue at the rate of 6.250% per annum and will be payable semi-annually in arrears on January 15 and July 15, commencing on July 15, 2013.

On June 21, 2013, Acquisition Corp. redeemed $50 million in aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 6.000% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 and €17.5 million in aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 6.250% Senior Secured Notes due 2021.

79 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Ranking The Notes are Acquisition Corp.'s senior secured obligations and are secured on an equal and ratable basis with all existing and future indebtedness secured with the same security arrangements as the Notes. The Notes rank senior in right of payment to the Issuer's subordinated indebtedness; rank equally in right of payment with all of the Issuer's existing and future senior indebtedness, including indebtedness under the New Senior Credit Facilities and any future senior secured credit facility; are effectively senior to the Issuer's unsecured senior indebtedness, including its existing unsecured notes, to the extent of the value of the collateral securing the Notes; and are structurally subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities of any of the Issuer's non-guarantor subsidiaries (other than indebtedness and liabilities owed to Acquisition Corp. or one of its subsidiary guarantors (as such term is defined below)).

Guarantees The Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior secured basis by each of the Issuer's existing direct or indirect wholly-owned domestic restricted subsidiaries and by any such subsidiaries that guarantee obligations of the Issuer under the New Senior Credit Facilities, subject to customary exceptions. Such subsidiary guarantors are collectively referred to herein as the "subsidiary guarantors," and such subsidiary guarantees are collectively referred to herein as the "subsidiary guarantees." Each subsidiary guarantee is a senior secured obligation of such subsidiary guarantor and is secured on an equal and ratable basis with all existing and future obligations of such subsidiary guarantor that are secured with the same security arrangements as the guarantee of the Notes (including the subsidiary guarantor's guarantee of obligations under the New Senior Credit Facilities). Each subsidiary guarantee ranks senior in right of payment to all subordinated obligations of the subsidiary guarantor; is effectively senior to the subsidiary guarantor's existing unsecured obligations, including the subsidiary guarantor's guarantee of Acquisition Corp.'s existing senior unsecured notes, to the extent of the collateral securing such guarantee; ranks equally in right of payment with all of the subsidiary guarantor's existing and future senior obligations, including the subsidiary guarantor's guarantee of obligations under the New Senior Credit Facilities; and is structurally subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities of any non-guarantor subsidiary of the subsidiary guarantor (other than indebtedness and liabilities owed to the Issuer or one of its subsidiary guarantors). Any subsidiary guarantee of the Notes may be released in certain circumstances.

Optional Redemption Dollar Notes At any time prior to January 15, 2016, Acquisition Corp. may on any one or more occasions redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of Dollar Notes (including the aggregate principal amount of any additional securities constituting Dollar Notes) issued under the Indenture, at its option, at a redemption price equal to 106.000% of the principal amount of the Dollar Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, to the date of redemption (subject to the rights of holders of Dollar Notes on the relevant record date to receive interest on the relevant interest payment date), with funds in an aggregate amount not exceeding the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings by Acquisition Corp. or any contribution to Acquisition Corp.'s common equity capital made with the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings by Acquisition Corp.'s direct or indirect parent; provided that: (1) at least 50% of the aggregate principal amount of Dollar Notes originally issued under the Indenture (including the aggregate principal amount of any additional securities constituting Dollar Notes issued under the Indenture) remains outstanding immediately after the occurrence of such redemption; and (2) the redemption occurs within 90 days of the date of, and may be conditioned upon, the closing of such equity offering.

The Dollar Notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at any time prior to January 15, 2016, at the option of Acquisition Corp., at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Dollar Notes redeemed plus the applicable make-whole premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, to, the applicable 80 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

On or after January 15, 2016, Acquisition Corp. may redeem all or a part of the Dollar Notes, at its option, at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, on the Dollar Notes to be redeemed to the applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on January 15 of the years indicated below: Year Percentage 2016 104.500 % 2017 103.000 % 2018 101.500 % 2019 and thereafter 100.000 % In addition, during any 12-month period prior to January 15, 2016, Acquisition Corp. will be entitled to redeem up to 10% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Dollar Notes (including the principal amount of any additional securities of the same series) at a redemption price equal to 103.000% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

Euro Notes At any time prior to January 15, 2016, Acquisition Corp. may on any one or more occasions redeem up to 40% of the aggregate principal amount of Euro Notes (including the aggregate principal amount of any additional securities constituting Euro Notes) issued under the Indenture, at its option, at a redemption price equal to 106.250% of the principal amount of the Euro Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, to the date of redemption (subject to the rights of holders of Euro Notes on the relevant record date to receive interest on the relevant interest payment date), with funds in an aggregate amount not exceeding the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings by Acquisition Corp. or any contribution to Acquisition Corp.'s common equity capital made with the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings by Acquisition Corp.'s direct or indirect parent; provided that: (1) at least 50% of the aggregate principal amount of Euro Notes originally issued under the Indenture (including the aggregate principal amount of any additional securities constituting Euro Notes) remains outstanding immediately after the occurrence of such redemption; and (2) the redemption occurs within 90 days of the date of, and may be conditioned upon, the closing of such equity offering.

The Euro Notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at any time prior to January 15, 2016, at the option of the Issuer, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Euro Notes redeemed plus the applicable make-whole premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, to, the applicable redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

On or after January 15, 2016, Acquisition Corp. may redeem all or a part of the Euro Notes, at its option, at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, on the Euro Notes to be redeemed to the applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on January 15 of the years indicated below: Year Percentage 2016 104.688 % 2017 103.125 % 2018 101.563 % 2019 and thereafter 100.000 % 81 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents In addition, during any 12-month period prior to January 15, 2016, Acquisition Corp. will be entitled to redeem up to 10% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Euro Notes (including the principal amount of any additional securities of the same series) at a redemption price equal to 103.000% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

Change of Control Upon the occurrence of a change of control, which is defined in the Base Indenture, each holder of the Notes has the right to require Acquisition Corp.

to repurchase some or all of such holder's Notes at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the repurchase date.

Covenants The Indenture contains covenants limiting, among other things, Acquisition Corp.'s ability and the ability of most of its subsidiaries to: incur additional indebtedness or issue certain preferred shares; pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of its capital stock or make investments or other restricted payments; create restrictions on the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends to it or make certain other intercompany transfers; sell certain assets; create liens; consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets; and enter into certain transactions with its affiliates.

Events of Default The Indenture also provides for events of default which, if any of them occurs, would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest on Notes to become or to be declared due and payable.

Unsecured WMG Notes On the Merger Closing Date, the Initial OpCo Issuer issued $765 million aggregate principal amount of the Unsecured WMG Notes pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of the Merger Closing Date (as amended and supplemented, the "Unsecured WMG Notes Indenture"), between the Initial OpCo Issuer and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as trustee (the "Trustee"). Following the completion of the OpCo Merger on the Merger Closing Date, Acquisition Corp. and certain of its domestic subsidiaries (the "Guarantors") entered into a Supplemental Indenture, dated as of the Merger Closing Date (the "Unsecured WMG Notes First Supplemental Indenture"), with the Trustee, pursuant to which (i) Acquisition Corp. became a party to the indenture and assumed the obligations of the Initial OpCo Issuer under the Unsecured WMG Notes and (ii) each Guarantor became a party to the Unsecured WMG Notes Indenture and provided an unconditional guarantee of the obligations of Acquisition Corp. under the Unsecured WMG Notes.

The Unsecured WMG Notes were issued at 97.673% of their face value for total net proceeds of $747 million, with an effective interest rate of 12%. The original issue discount (OID) was $17 million. The OID is the difference between the stated principal amount and the issue price. The OID will be amortized over the term of the Unsecured WMG Notes using the effective interest rate method and reported as non-cash interest expense. The Unsecured WMG Notes mature on October 1, 2018 and bear interest payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year at a fixed rate of 11.50% per annum.

Ranking The Unsecured WMG Notes are Acquisition Corp.'s general unsecured senior obligations. The Unsecured WMG Notes rank senior in right of payment to Acquisition Corp.'s existing and future subordinated 82-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents indebtedness; rank equally in right of payment with all of Acquisition Corp.'s existing and future senior indebtedness, including the New Secured Notes and indebtedness under the New Senior Credit Facilities are effectively subordinated to all of Acquisition Corp.'s existing and future secured indebtedness, including the New Secured Notes and indebtedness under the New Senior Credit Facilities, to the extent of the assets securing such indebtedness; and are structurally subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities of any of Acquisition Corp.'s non-guarantor subsidiaries (other than indebtedness and liabilities owed to Acquisition Corp. or one of its subsidiary guarantors (as such term is defined below)), to the extent of the assets of such subsidiaries.

Guarantees The Unsecured WMG Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of Acquisition Corp.'s existing direct or indirect wholly owned domestic subsidiaries, except for certain excluded subsidiaries, and by any such subsidiaries that guarantee other indebtedness of Acquisition Corp. in the future. Such subsidiary guarantors are collectively referred to herein as the "subsidiary guarantors," and such subsidiary guarantees are collectively referred to herein as the "subsidiary guarantees." Each subsidiary guarantee ranks senior in right of payment to all existing and future subordinated obligations of such subsidiary guarantor; ranks equally in right of payment with all of such subsidiary guarantor's existing and future senior indebtedness, including such subsidiary guarantor's guarantee of the Existing Secured Notes, indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility and the Secured WMG Notes; is effectively subordinated to all of such subsidiary guarantor's existing and future secured indebtedness, including such subsidiary guarantor's guarantee of the Existing Secured Notes, indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility and the Secured WMG Notes, to the extent of the assets securing such indebtedness; and is structurally subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities of any non-guarantor subsidiary of such subsidiary guarantor (other than indebtedness and liabilities owed to Acquisition Corp. or one of its subsidiary guarantors), to the extent of the assets of such subsidiary. Any subsidiary guarantee of the Unsecured WMG Notes may be released in certain circumstances. The Unsecured WMG Notes are not guaranteed by Holdings.

Optional Redemption Acquisition Corp. may redeem the Unsecured WMG Notes, in whole or in part, at any time prior to October 1, 2014, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus the applicable make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, on the Unsecured WMG Notes to be redeemed to the applicable redemption date. On or after October 1, 2014, Acquisition Corp. may redeem all or a part of the Unsecured WMG Notes, at its option, at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, on the Unsecured WMG Notes to be redeemed to the applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on October 1 of the years indicated below: Year Percentage 2014 108.625 % 2015 105.750 % 2016 102.875 % 2017 and thereafter 100.000 % In addition, at any time (which may be more than once) before October 1, 2014, Acquisition Corp. may redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Unsecured WMG Notes with the net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings at a redemption price of 111.50%, plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the applicable redemption date; provided that: (1) at least 50% of the aggregate principal amount of Unsecured WMG Notes originally issued under the Unsecured WMG Notes Indenture remains outstanding immediately after the occurrence of such redemption; and (2) the redemption occurs within 90 days of the date of, and may be conditioned upon, the closing of such equity offering.

83 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Change of Control Upon the occurrence of certain events constituting a change of control, Acquisition Corp. is required to make an offer to repurchase all of Unsecured WMG Notes (unless otherwise redeemed) at a purchase price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the repurchase date.

Covenants The Unsecured WMG Notes Indenture contains covenants that, among other things, limit Acquisition Corp.'s ability and the ability of most of its subsidiaries to: incur additional debt or issue certain preferred shares; pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of its capital stock or make investments or other restricted payments; create restrictions on the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends to Acquisition Corp. or make certain other intercompany transfers; sell certain assets; create liens securing certain debt; consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets.

Events of Default Events of default under the Unsecured WMG Notes Indenture are limited to: the nonpayment of principal or interest when due, violation of covenants and other agreements contained in the Unsecured WMG Notes Indenture, cross payment default after final maturity and cross acceleration of certain material debt, certain bankruptcy and insolvency events, material judgment defaults, and actual or asserted invalidity of a guarantee of a significant subsidiary subject to customary notice and grace period provisions. The occurrence of an event of default would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest on the Unsecured WMG Notes to become or to be declared due and payable.

Holdings Notes On the Merger Closing Date, the Initial Holdings Issuer issued $150 million aggregate principal amount of 13.75% Senior Notes due 2019 issued by Holdings, the ("Holdings Notes") pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of the Closing Date (as amended and supplemented, the "Holdings Notes Indenture"), between the Initial Holdings Issuer and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as Trustee (the "Trustee"). Following the completion of the Holdings Merger on the Closing Date, Holdings entered into a Supplemental Indenture, dated as of the Closing Date (the "Holdings Notes First Supplemental Indenture"), with the Trustee, pursuant to which Holdings became a party to the Indenture and assumed the obligations of the Initial Holdings Issuer under the Holdings Notes.

The Holdings Notes were issued at 100% of their face value. The Holdings Notes mature on October 1, 2019 and bear interest payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year at a fixed rate of 13.75% per annum.

Ranking The Holdings Notes are Holdings' general unsecured senior obligations. The Holdings Notes rank senior in right of payment to Holdings' existing and future subordinated indebtedness; rank equally in right of payment with all of Holdings' existing and future senior indebtedness; are effectively subordinated to the Existing Secured Notes, the indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility, and the Secured WMG Notes, to the extent of assets of Holdings securing such indebtedness; are effectively subordinated to all of Holdings' existing and future secured indebtedness, to the extent of the assets securing such indebtedness; and are structurally subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and other liabilities of any of Holdings' non-guarantor subsidiaries (other than indebtedness and liabilities owed to Acquisition Corp.

or one of its subsidiary guarantors (as such term is defined below)), Existing Secured Notes, the indebtedness under the Revolving Credit Facility, the Secured WMG Notes, and the Unsecured WMG Notes, to the extent of the assets of such subsidiaries.

84 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Guarantee The Holdings Notes are not guaranteed by any of its subsidiaries.

Optional Redemption Holdings may redeem the Holdings Notes, in whole or in part, at any time prior to October 1, 2015, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus the applicable make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, on the Secured WMG Notes to be redeemed to the applicable redemption date.

On or after October 1, 2015, Holdings may redeem all or a part of the Holdings Notes, at its option, at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, on the Holdings Notes to be redeemed to the applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on October 1 of the years indicated below: Year Percentage 2015 106.875 % 2016 103.438 % 2017 and thereafter 100.000 % In addition, at any time (which may be more than once) before October 1, 2015, Holdings may redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Holdings Notes with the net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings at a redemption price of 113.75%, plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the applicable redemption date; provided that: (1) at least 50% of the aggregate principal amount of Holdings Notes originally issued under the Holdings Notes Indenture remains outstanding immediately after the occurrence of such redemption; and (2) the redemption occurs within 90 days of the date of, and may be conditioned upon, the closing of such equity offering.

Change of Control Upon the occurrence of certain events constituting a change of control, Holdings is required to make an offer to repurchase all of the Holdings Notes (unless otherwise redeemed) at a purchase price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any to the repurchase date.

Covenants The Holdings Notes Indenture contains covenants that, among other things, limit Holdings' ability and the ability of most of its subsidiaries to: incur additional debt or issue certain preferred shares; create liens securing certain debt; pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of its capital stock or make investments or other restricted payments; create restrictions on the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends to Holdings or make certain other intercompany transfers; sell certain assets; consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets; and enter into certain transactions with affiliates.

Events of Default Events of default under the Holdings Notes Indenture are limited to: the nonpayment of principal or interest when due, violation of covenants and other agreements contained in the Holdings Notes Indenture, cross payment default after final maturity and cross acceleration of certain material debt, certain bankruptcy and insolvency events, and material judgment defaults, subject to customary notice and grace period provisions. The occurrence of an event of default would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest on the Holdings Notes to become or to be declared due and payable.

85-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Guarantees Guarantee of Holdings Notes On August 2, 2011, the Company issued a guarantee whereby it agreed to fully and unconditionally guarantee (the "Holdings Notes Guarantee"), on a senior unsecured basis, the payments of Holdings on the Holdings Notes.

Guarantee of Acquisition Corp. Notes On December 8, 2011, the Company issued a guarantee whereby it agreed to fully and unconditionally guarantee (the "Acquisition Corp. Notes Guarantee"), on a senior unsecured basis, the payments of Acquisition Corp. on the Unsecured WMG Notes.

Guarantee of New Secured Notes On November 16, 2012, the Company issued a guarantee whereby it agreed to fully and unconditionally guarantee (the "New Secured Notes Guarantee"), on a senior secured basis, the payments of Acquisition Corp. on the New Secured Notes.

Additional Consents Related To Our Notes On March 4, 2013, we entered into supplemental indentures to the indentures governing all of our outstanding notes, as applicable, after the requisite consents with respect to the applicable consent solicitations were received. The supplemental indentures amended the applicable indentures to permit us to provide certain Specified Information (as defined in the applicable supplemental indenture) with respect to the acquisition of Parlophone Label Group from Universal Music Group in satisfaction of the financial reporting covenants in the indentures governing our outstanding notes.

On October 22, 2012, we commenced consent solicitations relating to the Unsecured WMG Notes and Holdings Notes. We entered into supplemental indentures to the indentures governing the Unsecured WMG Notes and the Holdings Notes, as applicable, after the requisite consents with respect to the applicable consent solicitations were received. The supplemental indentures amended the applicable indentures to permit us to incur additional secured indebtedness under certain circumstances.

Covenant Compliance See "Liquidity" above for a description of the covenants governing our indebtedness. The Company was in compliance with its covenants under its outstanding notes, Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan Credit Facility as of September 30, 2013.

Our Revolving Credit Facility contains a springing leverage ratio that is tied to a ratio based on Consolidated EBITDA, which is defined under the Credit Agreement governing the Revolving Credit Facility. Consolidated EBITDA differs from the term "EBITDA" as it is commonly used. For example, the definition of Consolidated EBITDA, in addition to adjusting net income to exclude interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization, also adjusts net income by excluding items or expenses not typically excluded in the calculation of "EBITDA" such as, among other items, (1) the amount of any restructuring charges or reserves; (2) any non-cash charges (including any impairment charges); (3) any net loss resulting from hedging currency exchange risks; (4) the amount of management, monitoring, consulting and advisory fees paid to Access under the Management Agreement (as defined in the Credit Agreement); (5) business optimization expenses (including consolidation initiatives, severance costs and other costs relating to initiatives aimed at profitability improvement) and (6) share-based compensation expense and also includes an add-back for certain projected cost-savings and synergies. The indentures governing our notes and our Term Loan Credit Facility use financial measures called "Consolidated EBITDA" or "EBITDA" that have the same definition as Consolidated EBITDA as defined under the Credit Agreement governing the Revolving Credit Facility.

86 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Consolidated EBITDA is presented herein because it is a material component of the leverage ratio contained in our Revolving Credit Agreement. Non-compliance with the leverage ratio could result in the inability to use our Revolving Credit Facility which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position and cash flow. Consolidated EBITDA does not represent net income or cash flow from operations as those terms are defined by GAAP and does not necessarily indicate whether cash flows will be sufficient to fund cash needs. While Consolidated EBITDA and similar measures are frequently used as measures of operations and the ability to meet debt service requirements, these terms are not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other companies due to the potential inconsistencies in the method of calculation. Consolidated EBITDA does not reflect the impact of earnings or charges resulting from matters that we may consider not to be indicative of our ongoing operations. In particular, the definition of Consolidated EBITDA in the Revolving Credit Agreement allows us to add back certain non-cash, extraordinary, unusual or non-recurring charges that are deducted in calculating net income. However, these are expenses that may recur, vary greatly and are difficult to predict.

Consolidated EBITDA as presented below is not a measure of the performance of our business and should not be used by investors as an indicator of performance for any future period. Further, our debt instruments require that it be calculated for the most recent four fiscal quarters. As a result, the measure can be disproportionately affected by a particularly strong or weak quarter.

Further, it may not be comparable to the measure for any subsequent four-quarter period or any complete fiscal year. In addition, our debt instruments require that the leverage ratio be calculated on a pro forma basis for certain transactions including acquisitions as if such transactions had occurred on the first date of the measurement period and may include expected cost savings and synergies resulting from or related to any such transaction. There can be no assurances that any such cost savings or synergies will be achieved in full.

The following is a reconciliation of net income (loss), which is a GAAP measure of our operating results, to Consolidated EBITDA as defined, and the calculation of the Consolidated Funded Indebtedness to Consolidated EBITDA ratio, which we refer to as the leverage ratio, under our Revolving Credit Agreement for the most recently ended four fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2013. The terms and related calculations are defined in the Revolving Credit Agreement. All amounts in the reconciliation below reflect WMG Acquisition Corp. (in millions, except ratios): Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2013 Net Loss $ (172 ) Income tax expense (31 ) Interest expense, net 181 Depreciation and amortization 258 Restructuring costs (a) 33 Net hedging and foreign exchange losses (b) 14 Management fees (c) 8 Transaction costs (d) 49 Business optimization expenses (e) 12 Proforma savings (f) 73 Loss on extinguishment of debt (g) 85 Equity based compensation expense (h) 19 Other non-cash charges (i) 3 Consolidated EBITDA $ 532 Pro forma impact of specified transactions (j) 88 Pro Forma Consolidated EBITDA $ 620 Consolidated Funded Indebtedness (k) $ 2,767 Leverage Ratio (l) 4.22x 87 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents (a) Reflects severance costs and other restructuring related expenses.

(b) Reflects net losses from hedging activities and realized losses due to foreign exchange.

(c) Reflects management fees paid to Access, including an annual fee and related expenses (excludes expenses reimbursed related to certain consultants with full-time roles at the Company).

(d) Reflects costs mainly related to the Company's participation in the EMI sales process, including the subsequent regulatory review, as well as other integration and other nonrecurring costs related to the Acquisition.

(e) Reflects primarily costs associated with IT systems updates.

(f) Reflects net cost savings and synergies projected to result from actions taken or expected to be taken no later than twelve (12) months after the end of such period (calculated on a pro forma basis as though such cost savings and synergies had been realized on the first day of the period for which Consolidated EBITDA is being determined), net of the amount of actual benefits realized during such period from such actions during the twelve months ended September 30, 2013 as well as pro forma cost savings and other synergies from our acquisition of PLG. Pro forma savings reflected in the table above reflect targeted savings of $70 million expected from our acquisition of PLG as well as other cost savings or synergies projected to result from actions taken or expected to be taken no later than twelve months after September 30, 2013.

(g) Reflects loss incurred on the early extinguishment of our debt incurred as part of the November 2012 refinancing and June 2013 debt repayment.

(h) Reflects compensation expense related to the Warner Music Group Corp. Senior Management Free Cash Flow Plan.

(i) Reflects all non-cash charges not included in other items above, including but not limited to impairment and purchase accounting charges.

(j) Reflects the $88 million impact for the acquisition of PLG excluding the related targeted savings included above, as if the specified transaction had occurred on the first day of the September 30, 2013 measurement period.

(k) Reflects the principal balance of external debt at Acquisition Corp of approximately $2.7 billion, plus the annualized daily revolver borrowings of $19 million, plus contractual obligations of deferred purchase price of $2 million, plus contingent consideration related to acquisitions of $16 million.

(l) Reflects the ratio of Consolidated Funded Indebtedness to Consolidated EBITDA as of the twelve months ended September 30, 2013. This is calculated net of cash and cash equivalents of the Company as of September 30, 2013 not exceeding $150 million. If the outstanding aggregate principal amount of borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility is greater than $30 million at the end of a fiscal quarter, the maximum leverage ratio permitted under our Revolving Credit Facility was 6.00x as of the end of any fiscal quarter in fiscal 2013. For fiscal 2014, this ratio is 6.00x as of the end of the first quarter, 5.75x as of the end of the second and third quarters, and 5.50x as of the end of the fourth quarter. The Company's Revolving Credit Facility does not impose any "leverage ratio" restrictions on the Company when the aggregate principal amount of borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility is less than $30 million at the end of a fiscal quarter.

Summary Management believes that funds generated from our operations and borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility will be sufficient to fund our debt service requirements, working capital requirements and capital expenditure requirements for the foreseeable future. We also have additional borrowing capacity under our indentures and Term Loan Facility. However, our ability to continue to fund these items and to reduce debt may be affected by general economic, financial, competitive, legislative and regulatory factors, as well as other industry-specific factors such as the ability to control music piracy and the continued industry-wide decline of CD sales. We or any of our affiliates may also, from time to time depending on market conditions and prices, contractual restrictions, our financial liquidity and other factors, seek to prepay outstanding debt or repurchase the Holdings Notes, our New Secured Notes, or the Unsecured WMG Notes in open market purchases, privately negotiated purchases or otherwise. The amounts involved in any such transactions, individually or in the aggregate, may be material and may be funded from available cash or from additional borrowings. In addition, we may from time to time, depending on market conditions and prices, contractual restrictions, our financial liquidity and other factors, seek to refinance our New Senior Credit Facilities, Holdings Notes, New Secured Notes, or Unsecured WMG Notes with existing cash and/or with funds provided from additional borrowings.

88-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Contractual and Other Obligations Firm Commitments The following table summarizes the Company's aggregate contractual obligations at September 30, 2013, and the estimated timing and effect that such obligations are expected to have on the Company's liquidity and cash flow in future periods.

Less than 1-3 3-5 After 5 Firm Commitments and Outstanding Debt 1 year years years years Total (in millions) Secured Notes (1) $ - $ - $ - $ 655 $ 655 Interest Secured Notes (1) 40 80 80 100 300 Unsecured WMG Notes (1) - - - 765 765 Interest on Unsecured WMG Notes (1) 88 176 176 44 484 Holdings Notes (1) - - - 150 150 Interest on Holdings Notes (1) 21 41 41 41 144 Term Loan (1) 13 26 26 1,245 1,310 Interest on Term Loan (1) 49 96 94 81 320 Operating leases (2) 71 106 71 67 315 Capital leases (3) 3 6 2 - 11 Artist, songwriter and co-publisher commitments (4) 201 * * * 201 Management Fees (5) 9 18 18 ** 45 Minimum funding commitments to investees and other obligations (6) 4 3 - - 7 Total firm commitments and outstanding debt 499 552 508 3,148 4,707 The following is a description of our firmly committed contractual obligations at September 30, 2013: (1) Outstanding debt obligations consist of the Term Loan Facility, Dollar Notes, Euro Notes, Unsecured WMG Notes and the Holdings Notes. These obligations have been presented based on the principal amounts due, current and long term as of September 30, 2013. Amounts do not include any fair value adjustments, bond premiums or discounts. See Note 9 to the audited financial statements for a description of our financing arrangements.

(2) Operating lease obligations primarily relate to the minimum lease rental obligations for our real estate and operating equipment in various locations around the world. These obligations have been presented without the benefit of $20 million of total sublease income expected to be received under non-cancelable agreements. The future minimum payments reflect the amounts owed under our lease arrangements and do not include any fair market value adjustments that may have been recorded as a result of the Acquisition.

(3) See Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements.

(4) The Company routinely enters into long-term commitments with artists, songwriters and co-publishers for the future delivery of music product. Such commitments are payable principally over a ten-year period, and generally become due only upon delivery and Company acceptance of albums from the artists or future musical compositions by songwriters and co-publishers.

Additionally, such commitments are typically cancelable at the Company's discretion, generally without penalty. Based on contractual obligations and the Company's expected release schedule, aggregate firm commitments to such talent for the next 12 month period approximates $201 million at September 30, 2013. Because the timing of payment, and even whether payment occurs, is dependent upon the timing of delivery of albums and musical compositions from talent, the timing and amount of payment of these commitments as presented in the above summary can vary significantly.

(5) Pursuant to the Management Agreement, the Company, or one or more of its subsidiaries, will pay Access an annual fee initially equal to the greater of (i) the sum of (x) a base amount of approximately $9 million and (y) 1.5% of the aggregate amount of Acquired EBITDA (as defined in the Management Agreement) as 89 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents at such time and (ii) 1.5% of the EBITDA (as defined in the indenture governing the WMG Holdings Corp. 13.75% Senior Notes due 2019 as required by the Management Agreement) of the Company for the applicable fiscal year, plus expenses. The Company or one or more of its subsidiaries will also pay Access a specified transaction fee for certain types of transactions completed by Holdings or one or more of its subsidiaries, plus expenses.

(6) We have minimum funding commitments and other related obligations to support the operations of various investments, which are reflected in the table above. Other long-term liabilities include $30 million and $14 million of liabilities for uncertain tax positions as of September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively. We are unable to accurately predict when these amounts will be realized or released.

* Because the timing of payment, and even whether payment occurs, is dependent upon the timing of delivery of albums and musical compositions from talent, the timing and amount of payment of these commitments as presented in the above summary can vary significantly.

** Per the above explanation, the minimum annual fee will be approximately $9 million per year. This amount may vary based on the terms described above; and will continue as long as the Management Agreement remains unmodified and effective.

MARKET RISK MANAGEMENT We are exposed to market risk arising from changes in market rates and prices, including movements in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates.

Foreign Currency Risk We have significant transactional exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar due to the global scope of our operations. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, prior to intersegment elimination, approximately $1.731 billion, or 60%, of our revenues were generated outside of the U.S. The top five revenue-producing international countries are the U.K., France, Germany, Japan, and Italy, which use the British Pound Sterling, euro, euro, Japanese Yen, and euro as currencies, respectively.

See Note 17 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein for information on our operations in different geographical areas.

Historically, we have used, and continue to use, foreign exchange forward contracts and foreign exchange options primarily to hedge the risk that unremitted or future royalties and license fees owed to its domestic companies for the sale, or anticipated sale, of U.S.-copyrighted products abroad may be adversely affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. We focus on managing the level of exposure to the risk of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on our major currencies, which include the Euro, British pound sterling, Japanese yen, Canadian dollar and Australian dollar. In addition, we currently hedge foreign currency risk associated with financing transactions such as third-party and inter-company debt and other balance sheet items. See Note 16 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein for additional information.

Interest Rate Risk We have $2.888 billion of principal debt outstanding at September 30, 2013, of which $1.310 million is variable rate debt. As such, we are exposed to changes in interest rates. We currently manage this exposure through the fixed-to-floating debt ratio; at September 30, 2013, 55% of the Company's debt was at a fixed rate. In addition, at September 30, 2013, all of our floating rate debt under our Term Loan Facility was subject to a LIBOR floor of 1.0%, which is in excess of the current LIBOR rate. The LIBOR floor has effectively turned these LIBOR loans into fixed-rate debt until such time as the LIBOR rate moves higher than the floor.

In addition to the $1.310 million of variable rate debt, we also had $1.578 billion of fixed-rate debt. Based on the level of interest rates prevailing at September 30, 2013, the fair value of the fixed-rate and variable rate debt was approximately $3.060 billion. Further, based on the amount of our fixed-rate debt, a 25 basis point increase or decrease in the level of interest rates would increase or decrease the fair value of the fixed-rate debt 90-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents by approximately $11 million. This potential increase or decrease is based on the simplified assumption that the level of fixed-rate debt remains constant with an immediate across the board increase or decrease in the level of interest rates with no subsequent changes in rates for the remainder of the period.

We monitor our positions with, and the credit quality of, the financial institutions that are party to any of our financial transactions.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES The SEC's Financial Reporting Release No. 60, "Cautionary Advice Regarding Disclosure About Critical Accounting Policies" ("FRR 60"), suggests companies provide additional disclosure and commentary on those accounting policies considered most critical. FRR 60 considers an accounting policy to be critical if it is important to our financial condition and results, and requires significant judgment and estimates on the part of management in our application.

We believe the following list represents critical accounting policies as contemplated by FRR 60. For a summary of all of our significant accounting policies, see Note 3 to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein.

Business Combinations We account for our business acquisitions under the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 805, Business Combination ("ASC 805") guidance for business combinations. The total cost of acquisitions is allocated to the underlying identifiable net assets based on their respective estimated fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires management's judgment and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including assumptions with respect to future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, asset lives and market multiples, among other items. The discount rate utilized in the analysis was 11% while the terminal growth rate used in the DCF analysis was 2%. If our assumptions or estimates in the fair value calculation change, the fair value of our acquired intangible assets could change, this would also change the value of our goodwill.

Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets We account for our goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets as required by FASB Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 350, Intangibles-Goodwill and other ("ASC 350"). Under ASC 350, we no longer amortize goodwill, including the goodwill included in the carrying value of investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting, and certain other intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite useful life. ASC 350 requires that goodwill and certain intangible assets be assessed for impairment using fair value measurement techniques on an annual basis and when events occur that may suggest that the fair value of such assets cannot support the carrying value. ASC 350 gives an entity the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If an entity determines it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary.

However, if an entity concludes otherwise, then it is required to perform the step one of the two-step process. The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its net book value (or carrying amount), including goodwill.

In performing the first step, management determines the fair value of its reporting units using a combination of a discounted cash flow ("DCF") analysis and a market-based approach. Determining fair value requires significant judgment concerning the assumptions used in the valuation model, including discount rates, the amount and timing of expected future cash flows and, growth rates, as well as relevant comparable company earnings multiples for the market-based approach including the determination of whether a premium or discount should be applied to those comparables. The cash flows employed in the DCF analyses are based on 91 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents management's most recent budgets and business plans and when applicable, various growth rates have been assumed for years beyond the current business plan periods. Any forecast contains a degree of uncertainty and modifications to these cash flows could significantly increase or decrease the fair value of a reporting unit. For example, if revenue from sales of physical products continues to decline and the revenue from sales of digital products does not continue to grow as expected and we are unable to adjust costs accordingly, it could have a negative impact on future impairment tests. In determining which discount rate to utilize, management determines the appropriate weighted average cost of capital ("WACC") for each reporting unit. Management considers many factors in selecting a WACC, including the market view of risk for each individual reporting unit, the appropriate capital structure and the appropriate borrowing rates for each reporting unit. The selection of a WACC is subjective and modification to this rate could significantly increase or decrease the fair value of a reporting unit.

If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is considered not impaired and the second step of the impairment test is unnecessary. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. That is, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit (including any unrecognized intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the purchase price paid to acquire the reporting unit.

As of September 30, 2013, we had recorded goodwill in the amount of $1.668 billion, including $1.204 billion and $464 million for Recorded Music and Music Publishing, respectively, primarily related to the Merger and PLG Acquisition.

We test our goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year as of July 1. The performance of our fiscal 2013 impairment analysis did not result in an impairment of the Company's goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets. The discount rates utilized in the fiscal 2013 analysis ranged from 7% to 14% while the terminal growth rates used in the DCF analysis ranged from 1% to 2%. The fair values of all our reporting units were in excess of their carrying value as of our annual impairment test. The fair value of our Music Publishing reporting unit was closest to its carrying value and was 5% in excess of its carrying value at September 30, 2013. Both U.S. Recorded Music and International Recorded Music were greater than 40% in excess of their respective carrying values at September 30, 2013.

If our assumptions or estimates in the fair value calculation change, we could incur impairment charges in future periods. For example, if the discount rates or terminal growth rates utilized in our fiscal 2013 annual impairment testing increased or decreased, respectively, by approximately 50-150 basis points, the estimated fair value of our Music Publishing reporting unit would have fallen below its carrying value.

The impairment test for other intangible assets not subject to amortization involves a comparison of the estimated fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

The estimates of fair value of intangible assets not subject to amortization are determined using a DCF valuation analysis. Common among such approaches is the "relief from royalty" methodology, which is used in estimating the fair value of the Company's trademarks. Discount rate assumptions are based on an assessment of the risk inherent in the projected future cash flows generated by the respective intangible assets. Also subject to judgment are assumptions about royalty rates, which are based on the estimated rates at which similar trademarks are being licensed in the marketplace.

See Note 7 to our audited consolidated financial statements contained in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 for a further discussion of our goodwill and other intangible assets.

92-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Revenue and Cost Recognition Sales Returns and Uncollectible Accounts In accordance with practice in the recorded music industry and as customary in many territories, certain products (such as CDs and DVDs) are sold to customers with the right to return unsold items. Under FASB ASC Topic 605, Revenue Recognition, revenues from such sales are recognized when the products are shipped based on gross sales less a provision for future estimated returns.

In determining the estimate of product sales that will be returned, management analyzes historical returns, current economic trends, changes in customer demand and commercial acceptance of our products. Based on this information, management reserves a percentage of each dollar of product sales to provide for the estimated customer returns.

Similarly, management evaluates accounts receivables to determine if they will ultimately be collected. In performing this evaluation, significant judgments and estimates are involved, including an analysis of specific risks on a customer-by-customer basis for larger accounts and customers, and a receivables aging analysis that determines the percent that has historically been uncollected by aged category. Based on this information, management provides a reserve for the estimated amounts believed to be uncollectible.

Based on management's analysis of sales returns and uncollectible accounts, reserves totaling $55 million and $63 million were established at September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively. The ratio of our receivable allowances to gross accounts receivables was 10% at September 30, 2013 and 14% at September 30, 2012.

Gross Versus Net Revenue Classification In the normal course of business, we act as an intermediary or agent with respect to certain payments received from third parties. For example, we distribute music product on behalf of third-party record labels.

The accounting issue encountered in these arrangements is whether we should report revenue based on the "gross" amount billed to the ultimate customer or on the "net" amount received from the customer after participation and other royalties paid to third parties. To the extent revenues are recorded gross (in the full amount billed), any participations and royalties paid to third parties are recorded as expenses so that the net amount (gross revenues, less expenses) flows through operating income. Accordingly, the impact on operating income is the same, whether we record the revenue on a gross basis or net basis (less related participations and royalties).

Determining whether revenue should be reported gross or net is based on an assessment of whether we are acting as the "principal" in a transaction or acting as an "agent" in the transaction. To the extent we are acting as a principal in a transaction, we report as revenue the payments received on a gross basis. To the extent we are acting as an agent in a transaction, we report as revenue the payments received less participations and royalties paid to third parties, i.e., on a net basis. The determination of whether we are serving as principal or agent in a transaction is judgmental in nature and based on an evaluation of the terms of an arrangement.

In determining whether we serve as principal or agent in these arrangements, we follow the guidance in FASB ASC Subtopic 605-45, Principal Agent Considerations ("ASC 605-45"). Pursuant to such guidance, we serve as the principal in transactions where we have the substantial risks and rewards of ownership. The indicators that we have substantial risks and rewards of ownership are as follows: • we are the supplier of the products or services to the customer; • we have latitude in establishing prices; • we have the contractual relationship with the ultimate customer; 93 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents • we modify and service the product purchased to meet the ultimate customer specifications; • we have discretion in supplier selection; and • we have credit risk.

Conversely, pursuant to ASC 605-45, we serve as agent in arrangements where we do not have substantial risks and rewards of ownership. The indicators that we do not have substantial risks and rewards of ownership are as follows: • the supplier (not the Company) is responsible for providing the product or service to the customer; • the supplier (not the Company) has latitude in establishing prices; • the amount we earn is fixed; • the supplier (not the Company) has credit risk; and • the supplier (not the Company) has general inventory risk for a product before it is sold.

Based on the above criteria and for the more significant transactions that we have evaluated, we record the distribution of product on behalf of third-party record labels on a gross basis, subject to the terms of the contract. However, recorded music compilations distributed by other record companies where we have a right to participate in the profits are recorded on a net basis.

Accounting for Royalty Advances We regularly commit to and pay royalty advances to our recording artists and songwriters in respect of future sales. We account for these advances under the related guidance in FASB ASC Topic 928, Entertainment-Music ("ASC 928"). Under ASC 928, we capitalize as assets certain advances that we believe are recoverable from future royalties to be earned by the recording artist or songwriter. Advances vary in both amount and expected life based on the underlying recording artist or songwriter. Advances to recording artists or songwriters with a history of successful commercial acceptability will typically be larger than advances to a newer or unproven recording artist or songwriter.

In addition, in most cases these advances represent a multi-album release or multi-song obligation and the number of albums releases and songs will vary by recording artist or songwriter.

Management's decision to capitalize an advance to a recording artist or songwriter as an asset requires significant judgment as to the recoverability of the advance. The recoverability is assessed upon initial commitment of the advance based upon management's forecast of anticipated revenue from the sale of future and existing albums or songs. In determining whether the advance is recoverable, management evaluates the current and past popularity of the recording artist or songwriter, the sales history of the recording artist or songwriter, the initial or expected commercial acceptability of the product, the current and past popularity of the genre of music that the product is designed to appeal to, and other relevant factors. Based upon this information, management expenses the portion of any advance that it believes is not recoverable. In most cases, advances to recording artists or songwriters without a history of success and evidence of current or past popularity will be expensed immediately. Advances are individually assessed for recoverability continuously and at minimum on a quarterly basis. As part of the ongoing assessment of recoverability, we monitor the projection of future sales based on the current environment, the recording artist's or songwriter's ability to meet their contractual obligations as well as our intent to support future album releases or songs from the recording artist or songwriter. To the extent that a portion of an outstanding advance is no longer deemed recoverable, that amount will be expensed in the period the determination is made.

We had $266 million and $258 million of advances in our balance sheet at September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively. We believe such advances are recoverable through future royalties to be earned by the applicable recording artists and songwriters.

94-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Accounting for Income Taxes As part of the process of preparing the consolidated financial statements, we are required to estimate income taxes payable in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. This process involves estimating the actual current tax expense together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated balance sheets. FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes ("ASC 740"), requires a valuation allowance be established when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of deferred tax assets will not be realized. In circumstances where there is sufficient negative evidence, establishment of a valuation allowance must be considered. We believe that cumulative losses in the most recent three-year period generally represent sufficient negative evidence to consider a valuation allowance under the provisions of ASC 740. As a result, we determined that certain of our deferred tax assets required the establishment of a valuation allowance.

The realization of the remaining deferred tax assets is primarily dependent on forecasted future taxable income. Any reduction in estimated forecasted future taxable income may require that we record additional valuation allowances against our deferred tax assets on which a valuation allowance has not previously been established. The valuation allowance that has been established will be maintained until there is sufficient positive evidence to conclude that it is more likely than not that such assets will be realized. An ongoing pattern of profitability will generally be considered as sufficient positive evidence.

Our income tax expense recorded in the future may be reduced to the extent of offsetting decreases in our valuation allowance. The establishment and reversal of valuation allowances could have a significant negative or positive impact on our future earnings.

From time to time, the Company engages in transactions in which the tax consequences may be subject to uncertainty. Significant judgment is required in assessing and estimating the tax consequences of these transactions. The Company prepares and files tax returns based on its interpretation of tax laws and regulations. In the normal course of business, the Company's tax returns are subject to examination by various taxing authorities. Such examinations may result in future tax and interest assessments by these taxing authorities. In determining the Company's tax provision for financial reporting purposes, the Company establishes a reserve for uncertain tax positions unless such positions are determined to be more likely than not of being sustained upon examination based on their technical merits. There is considerable judgment involved in determining whether positions taken on the Company's tax returns are more likely than not of being sustained.

Accounting for Share-based Compensation Share-based compensation represents compensation payment for which the amounts are based on the fair market value of the Company's shares. The Company's Senior Management Long Term Incentive Plan is classified as a liability rather than equity under ASC 718. Liability classified share-based compensation costs are measured at fair value each reporting date until settlement. Because it is not practical for WMG to estimate the volatility of its share price needed to use the fair value approach since our stock is not currently publically traded, WMG has made a policy election that whenever share-based payment awards are required to be measured as a liability, the Company will use the intrinsic value method to measure the costs. Under the intrinsic value method, WMG obtains a valuation of our presumed stock price at least annually (or more frequently for significant changes in the business) and re-measures the related awards using this new price, recognizing compensation costs for the difference between the existing price and new price.

Determining fair value requires significant judgment concerning the assumptions used in the valuation model, including discount rates, the amount and timing of expected future cash flows and, growth rates, as well as relevant comparable company earnings multiples for the market-based approach including the determination of whether a premium or discount should be applied to those comparables. The cash flows employed in the DCF analyses are based on management's most recent budgets and business plans and when applicable, various growth rates have been assumed for years beyond the current business plan periods. Any forecast contains a degree of uncertainty and modifications to these cash flows could significantly increase or decrease the fair value of the presumed share price. For example, if revenue from sales of physical products continues to decline and the 95 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents revenue from sales of digital products does not continue to grow as expected and we are unable to adjust costs accordingly, it could have a negative impact on future pricing. In determining which discount rate to utilize, management determines the appropriate weighted average cost of capital ("WACC") for the Company. Management considers many factors in selecting a WACC, including the market view of risk, the appropriate capital structure and the appropriate borrowing rates for the Company. The selection of a WACC is subjective and modification to this rate could significantly increase or decrease the fair value of our presumed stock price.

New Accounting Principles In addition to the critical accounting policies discussed above, we adopted several new accounting policies during the past two years. None of these new accounting principles had a material effect on our audited financial statements.

See Note 3 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein for a complete summary.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK As discussed in Note 16 to our audited financial statements the Company is exposed to market risk arising from changes in market rates and prices, including movements in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. As of September 30, 2013, other than as described below, there have been no material changes to the Company's exposure to market risk since September 30, 2012.

We have transactional exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar due to the global scope of our operations.

Historically, we have used, and continue to use, foreign exchange forward contracts and foreign exchange options primarily to hedge the risk that unremitted or future royalties and license fees owed to its domestic companies for the sale, or anticipated sale, of U.S.-copyrighted products abroad may be adversely affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. We focus on managing the level of exposure to the risk of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on our major currencies, which include the Euro, British pound sterling, Japanese yen, Canadian dollar and Australian dollar. As of September 30, 2013, the Company had outstanding hedge contracts for the sale of $249 million and the purchase of $1.044 billion of foreign currencies at fixed rates. Subsequent to September 30, 2013, certain of our foreign exchange contracts expired and were renewed with new foreign exchange contracts with similar features.

The fair value of foreign exchange contracts is subject to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. For the purpose of assessing the specific risks, we use a sensitivity analysis to determine the effects that market risk exposures may have on the fair value of our financial instruments. For foreign exchange forward contracts outstanding at September 30, 2013, assuming a hypothetical 10% depreciation of the U.S dollar against foreign currencies from prevailing foreign currency exchange rates and assuming no change in interest rates, the fair value of the foreign exchange forward contracts would have decreased by $79 million. Because our foreign exchange contracts are entered into for hedging purposes, these losses would be largely offset by gains on the underlying transactions.

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